The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has certified six more MICE Cities, taking its network from 10 to 16. The new names are Chiang Rai, Ubon Ratchathani, Rayong, Hua Hin–Cha-am, Krabi and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Our Thailand team lists all 16 in its briefing on Thailand's MICE Cities. Here we look at what the label means for a planner choosing where to hold a group.
What Changed
- Six new cities. Chiang Rai, Ubon Ratchathani, Rayong, Hua Hin–Cha-am, Krabi and Nakhon Si Thammarat joined the network in September 2026.
- Three renewals. Surat Thani, Phitsanulok and Udon Thani kept their certification.
- A long checklist. The cities were assessed against eight criteria and 32 indicators, including access, venues, hotels, safety and pre- and post-event activities.
- Next review. TCEB says Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Khon Kaen are due to be assessed again in 2027.
What the Label Tells a Planner
The label is the bureau's view that a city can host business events. It helps when a client asks whether a smaller city can handle a group, and it can bring in local support from the bureau.
It does not confirm that a venue fits your numbers. Room size, hotel blocks near the venue and flights for your dates still need checking for each programme.
Using a Second City in a Group Programme
- Pair it with a hub. Chiang Rai often works with Chiang Mai, and Krabi or Hua Hin–Cha-am with a Bangkok stay.
- Test the flights first. A smaller airport can have few direct flights, so check the timings for your dates before you propose the city.
- Plan the extras. The programme around the meeting was one of the things the cities were judged on, and it is often what the guests remember.
- One brief, several countries. If the group also travels to Japan, Korea or New Zealand, keep the same checklist for every city on the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cities joined Thailand's MICE City network in 2026?
Chiang Rai, Ubon Ratchathani, Rayong, Hua Hin–Cha-am, Krabi and Nakhon Si Thammarat, taking the network from 10 to 16 cities.
Does a MICE City label guarantee a venue for my group?
No. It is the bureau's view of a city's overall readiness. Venue capacity, hotel rooms and flights for your dates still need to be checked for each programme.
When are the main cities reviewed again?
TCEB says Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Khon Kaen are due to be assessed again in 2027.
Where Explera Fits
We plan meetings and incentive programmes across our destinations: Thailand, Japan, Korea and New Zealand. Our ground teams run site inspections, venue checks and the programme around the meeting.
Write to b2b@expleradmc.com or message +66 93 656 8090 on WhatsApp. Explera Thailand holds TAT licence No. 14/05119. Explera DMC is IATA TIDS-registered (96215733) and an ASTA member (900408341).
