Santitarn described the coming years as a key window for Thailand to strengthen its economic position
Rising tensions in the Middle East are beginning to reshape global capital flows, with Thailand emerging as a potential destination for investment and high-skilled talent, particularly from wealthy Arab economies.
Analysts say ongoing instability is prompting investors and professionals to diversify risk by seeking new bases abroad, with Southeast Asia increasingly coming into focus.
Santitarn Sathirathai, a former member of the Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee, said the shift is accelerating.
Thailand is gaining attention as a “safe haven”, capable of attracting both investment funds and skilled professionals seeking stability, he said.
Middle Eastern investors are already familiar with Thailand’s healthcare system and services sector, which, combined with infrastructure and lifestyle factors, is supporting interest in relocation and investment.
Santitarn described the coming years as a key window for Thailand to strengthen its economic position, calling it a “golden opportunity” to build long-term growth, particularly by combining strengths in healthcare and services with emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence.
Kongkiat Kespechara, a senior executive at Bangkok Dusit Medical Services, said there are already signs of changing behavior among foreign visitors.
He said more tourists are choosing longer stays, particularly in eastern and southern regions, reflecting a shift toward extended residency.
Kongkiat said Thailand should encourage long-term investment through targeted policies, including special economic zones designed to attract high-net-worth individuals. However, he cautioned that safeguards would be needed to prevent illicit capital flows and maintain investor confidence.
The Association of Investment Management Companies has also proposed tapping into Thailand’s expatriate population as a source of capital.
Pote Harinasuta, CEO of One Asset Management, said there are around 500,000 expatriates in Thailand, representing a significant investment base.
“If just 25,000 of them invested an average of 1 million baht each, it could generate substantial new inflows into Thailand’s capital markets,” he said.
Analysts said further progress will depend on regulatory reforms, tax incentives, and a consistent policy framework to attract high-quality investment.
