Thailand has been selected to host the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) 2026 in Phuket, a milestone that reinforces the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global wellness economy and highlights its leadership across holistic wellbeing, medical innovation and premium wellness tourism.
The announcement was made by the Global Wellness Institute during GWS 2025 in Dubai, held from 18–21 November. Recognised as the world’s foremost gathering for wellness leaders, investors and innovators, the Global Wellness Summit brings together key stakeholders shaping the future of health and wellbeing.
A Landmark Win for Thailand’s Wellness Ecosystem
Thailand’s successful bid was led by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) in collaboration with Phuket Province and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine under the Ministry of Public Health. Presented under the theme “The Symphony of Wellness”, the bid reflects Thailand’s ambition to deepen its contribution to the global wellness conversation while elevating its status as a world-class wellness destination.
Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), welcomed the confirmation:
“We congratulate the organisations that led Thailand’s successful bid to host the Global Wellness Summit 2026. TAT is ready to support their efforts to deliver a memorable and impactful event in Phuket. Thailand’s diverse wellness strengths—from traditional therapies to nature-based experiences—provide a powerful foundation for welcoming the global wellness community next year.”
Phuket Set to Welcome Global Wellness Leaders
Scheduled from 10–13 November 2026, the summit is expected to attract more than 600 delegates from over 30 countries, including:
- Wellness industry pioneers
- Policymakers and researchers
- Fortune 500 executives
- Investors and innovators
- Leaders in medical and holistic health
Early projections indicate that the summit will generate strong economic momentum for Phuket and Thailand, supporting high-value business development, knowledge exchange and policy engagement across the wellness sector.
Thailand’s Rise as a Wellness Powerhouse
Thailand’s readiness to host GWS 2026 follows years of steady advancement in its health and wellness industries, supported by:
- Globally respected medical services
- Holistic and alternative therapies
- Thai traditional medicine expertise
- Growing investment in wellness innovation
- Reputation for service excellence and hospitality
Demand for Thai wellness and medical tourism continues to grow across key markets, including the Gulf region. This trend has been strengthened by TAT’s engagement platforms such as the Middle East Luxury Trade Meet, held this year in Kuwait and Bahrain, spotlighting Thailand’s premium wellness, lifestyle and medical offerings.
Phuket’s Ambition: Becoming a Global Wellness Capital
Phuket—already one of Asia’s most sought-after lifestyle destinations—is deepening its strategic transformation into a Global Wellness Capital. The island is investing in:
- Longevity and regenerative health services
- Innovative medical tourism facilities
- Wellness-focused hospitality
- Sustainable, health-driven urban development
Hosting the Global Wellness Summit is expected to accelerate this trajectory by boosting investor confidence, elevating the island’s global profile and attracting new partnerships across the fast-growing wellness economy.
Wellness at the Heart of Thailand’s Tourism Strategy
Wellness has long been a pillar of TAT’s tourism strategy, reflected in a broad array of initiatives promoting mindful travel, holistic wellbeing and health-centred experiences. This includes the recent global campaign, “Unforgettable Experience: Healing is the New Luxury,” which positions Thailand as a sanctuary for restorative travel.
Hosting GWS 2026 offers Thailand a powerful stage to showcase its unique blend of cultural depth, natural beauty, healing traditions and forward-looking medical innovation. It also provides a platform to collaborate with international partners and strengthen Thailand’s position as a leader in global wellness tourism.
