Russia's Love Affair with Thailand Continues: Record-Breaking Tourist Numbers Expected

Thailand has welcomed nearly a million Russian tourists in the first half of 2026, setting the stage for a potential record-breaking year. According to Russian Ambassador to Thailand Evgeny Tomikhin, if the current growth trend continues, the number of Russian visitors to Thailand may surpass the 1.9 million recorded in 2025. As of June 20, 996,800 Russian tourists had visited Thailand since January, with the total expected to reach one million by the end of June. The ongoing rainy season has not dampened the enthusiasm of Russian travelers, with the Thai Ministry of Sports and Tourism reporting a steady influx of visitors from Russia. In 2025, Thailand saw a record 1.9 million Russian tourists, and Tomikhin believes that this year's numbers could be even higher. Russians currently rank fourth among foreign tourists visiting Thailand, behind only Chinese, Malaysian, and Indian nationals. The Thai government's tourism ministry has reported a significant increase in Russian visitors, and industry experts are optimistic about the prospects for the rest of the year. With its rich culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities, Thailand remains a top destination for Russian travelers, and it seems likely that 2026 will be another banner year for Russian tourism in the country.