New Thailand entry rules, conflict alerts: What UAE travellers must know

Dubai: The Royal Thai Embassy has issued updated guidance on the Digital Travel Arrival Card (TDAC) now required for foreign nationals entering Thailand — including UAE travellers — as multiple foreign embassies, including the UK and US, advise caution over security risks near the Thailand–Cambodia border.

The TDAC — a mandatory online pre-arrival form — was introduced on May 1 to replace the physical arrival card. As of this week, Thai authorities have now published step-by-step application instructions, clarifying how travellers should submit their information before boarding.

TDAC quick facts for UAE residents:

• Must be completed within 72 hours before arrival in Thailand

• Required for all travellers, including visa-exempt nationals

• Can be submitted individually or in groups (families/businesses)

• An electronic confirmation slip must be shown upon arrival

Travellers can access the updated process and TDAC form on the Thai Immigration Bureau’s official portal.

Avoid Thai-Cambodia border

In a separate development, several foreign governments — including the UK Foreign Office, US Department of State, and Australian DFAT — have issued new travel warnings for Thailand in recent days. The alerts point to increased tensions and sporadic violence along parts of the Thai-Cambodian border.

Advisories urge foreign nationals to avoid non-essential travel within 50km of the border in provinces such as:

• Surin

• Si Saket

• Ubon Ratchathani

• Buriram

• Sa Kaeo

• Chanthaburi

• Trat (mainland)

While the Thai government has not formally issued a domestic advisory, embassies cite the presence of landmines, armed clashes, and unresolved military disputes as reasons for caution.

In addition, travellers are advised to stay alert in urban areas, including Bangkok, Phuket, and other popular destinations, due to an ongoing risk of terrorism, as flagged by multiple embassies.

For UAE travellers heading to Thailand:

• Submit your TDAC form online before flying

• Prepare to show digital confirmation at Thai immigration

• Reconsider trips to the Thai-Cambodia border region

• Stay vigilant in crowded areas due to terrorism risks

• Monitor embassy alerts regularly during your stay