Thailand as a premier film tourism destination

Thailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has taken a significant step forward in its mission to integrate film and tourism by collaborating with Universal Pictures Home Entertainment on a global press event for Jurassic World: Rebirth. The latest blockbuster in the iconic franchise, which premiered on 2 July, was filmed across the breathtaking landscapes of Krabi, Phang-Nga, and Trang.

Thirty international media representatives—alongside the film’s director Gareth Edwards and cast members Jonathan Bailey, Luna Blaise, David Iacono, and Audriana Miranda—visited Thailand from 30 July to 3 August. The event began with a Welcome Dinner at the luxurious Trisara resort in Phuket. It featured immersive visits to key filming locations under the themes of “Sea, Land, and Air,” reflecting major scenes in the film. Participants rappelled down cliffs at Railay Beach, explored coastal trails, and created original content set against the cinematic backdrops.

The activity reinforces Thailand’s growing appeal as a world-class filming destination, combining logistical ease, diverse scenery, and professional production support. The filming of Jurassic World: Rebirth alone brought in over 400 million Baht and generated more than 2,200 jobs across the three southern provinces, giving the region significant global exposure.

This global media event forms part of TAT’s broader efforts under the “Location Thailand” project, which leverages global entertainment to promote Thai destinations. With the rising trend of “set-jetting” travel inspired by films and series, the initiative delivered immediate visibility across digital channels and reignited international interest in southern Thailand’s cinematic landscapes.

“Thailand continues to be a sought-after destination for international productions—not just for our breathtaking cliffs, jungles, and coastlines, but because we offer a complete professional experience,” said Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor. “With world-class crews, modern studios, streamlined permits, and genuine Thai hospitality, we’re proud to support stories that inspire real-world travel. Our collaboration with Universal Pictures Home Entertainment reflects how film and tourism can grow together, creating lasting value for our destinations and communities.”

The collaboration came to life through the Jurassic World: Rebirth Global Media Event, where storytelling met real-world travel. Designed as more than just a film promotion, the event turned cinematic settings into immersive experiences—amplified by global influencers and media whose content now extends the reach of both the film and Thailand’s appeal as a destination.

Stephanie Lutjens, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, shared her appreciation during the Welcome Dinner: “It’s important to note that tonight’s spectacular activities would not be possible without the generous support of Amazing Thailand and the outstanding team at the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Their unwavering commitment to promoting Thailand’s tourism and preserving its natural beauty is truly inspiring. We are extremely grateful for their incredible partnership.”

According to the Thailand Film Office, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand hosted 279 international productions during the first half of 2025, generating over 2.8 billion Baht in economic value. The United States led in production spend at 1.23 billion Baht, followed by South Korea (251 million), France (211 million), Singapore (200 million), and Germany (142 million). India topped the chart for production volume with 30 projects, just ahead of South Korea (29), Japan and China (22 each), the United States (20), and France (19). Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Chon Buri, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan emerged as the five most filmed provinces.

TAT’s film tourism strategy—centred on cash rebate incentives, facilitation, and global promotion—continues to attract major international productions. In addition to Jurassic World: Rebirth, Thailand recently served as the primary filming location for Alien: Earth, premiering on 13 August 2025 on Disney+ Hotstar. This production stands as the largest foreign series investment in Thailand in more than 30 years, with a budget exceeding 2.8 billion Baht. Shot across seven provinces over nearly two years, it employed over 24,000 Thai crew members.

Other major titles such as The White Lotus Season 3 and Fast & Furious 9 further cement Thailand’s reputation as a world-class filming destination. By transforming cinematic moments into meaningful travel inspiration, TAT is turning stories on screen into journeys on the ground—bringing global audiences one step closer to Thailand.