Nestled on Thailand’s breathtaking eastern Gulf coast, Pattaya, famous for its picturesque beaches and water sports, is emerging as a world-class destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism. The city’s robust growth, stunning natural attractions, business hubs, and a plethora of hotels and shopping centres make it an ideal locale for large-scale conventions, trade shows, and exhibitions.
Spearheading the transformation is the strategic partnership among the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Office, and the city of Pattaya. The collaboration aims to revamp the resort destination into a ‘MICE Metropolis’, using the city’s recognition under the Thailand MICE Venue Standard (TMVS).
The EEC zone, which includes parts of three provinces surrounding Pattaya, is pivotal in driving this transformation. The extensive development plans for the region, featuring several mega-projects, are set to bolster the city’s potential as a MICE hub. One of the significant projects includes the expansion of the U-Tapao airport, which promises to streamline the city’s connectivity with global locations.
Simultaneously, a comprehensive infrastructure project is underway to revolutionise ground, sea, and air transport systems across the provinces. The augmentation of these transport facilities will be instrumental in supporting the growth and development of the MICE businesses in Pattaya.
Pattaya boasts various accommodations and facilities tailored to host international conventions and exhibitions. The city is rapidly ascending the MICE tourism ladder, ranking third after Bangkok and Phuket regarding MICE traveller volume.
Beyond its natural appeal and thriving economy, Pattaya’s strategic developments make it a hotspot for commerce, investment, and services. Thus, The city is a stunning backdrop for business conventions and a lucrative ground for investors looking to tap into its growth potential.
To say that life is business in Pattaya would be an understatement. As Pattaya reinvents itself into a premier MICE city, it is an exciting blend of business and pleasure. And as the saying goes, in the MICE industry – mix business with leisure for the best measure of success!
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach (Joom)
