Thailand takes back crown from Malaysia as Southeast Asia's most visited country

By Hoang Phong February 6, 2025 | 05:00 am PT

Tourists and Hindu devotees are seen on the 272 steps of Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple at Batu Caves, Malaysia, April 19, 2024. Photo by Reuters

Thailand has reclaimed its title as the most visited country in Southeast Asia by getting 35.5 million foreign visitors in 2024 after losing the crown to Malaysia in 2023.

Malaysia was second with 25 million visitors, which was short of its target of 27.3 million.

Vietnam ranked third with 17.5 million visitors, followed by Singapore with 16.5 million and Indonesia with 13.9 million.

The rest included Cambodia with 6.7 million arrivals, the Philippines with 5.4 million, Laos with 4.1 million, and Myanmar with 1.06 million.

Thailand's tourism rebound was driven by several initiatives, including the introduction of permanent visa-free programs for Chinese and Indian tourists.

Southeast Asian countries have been competing to attract foreign tourists by easing visa policies.

Malaysia recently extended free visas for Chinese and Indian travelers until 2026, while Vietnam will offer 45-day visa-free travel for citizens of Poland, Czechia and Switzerland on package tours starting March 1.

Cambodia has reduced e-visa fees for tourists since January.