Phuket to host Global Wellness Summit 2026 from Nov. 10-13, Thai officials say
Thai officials said Phuket will host the Global Wellness Summit 2026 on Nov. 10-13 at Angsana Laguna Phuket, as preparations continue with U.S. organizers and local partners.
Thailand's Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine said preparations are advancing for Phuket to host the Global Wellness Summit 2026, with the event scheduled for Nov. 10-13, 2026 at Angsana Laguna Phuket.
Director-General Dr. Phongsathorn Phokpermdee said the department, as the main rights holder for the event, has been working with domestic and international partners under a collaborative governance model. He said Thailand has been meeting regularly with the U.S.-based Global Wellness Summit management team as a strategic partner and, during the summit's 20th anniversary year, has been given a co-chair role in organizing the event.
According to the department, the official theme has been set as "The Science, Art & Soul of Wellness." Phongsathorn said the arrangement gives Thailand a role in shaping the direction and content of the main stage, rather than serving only as the host venue.
The department said it is also coordinating with Thai agencies including TCEB, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Phuket authorities on facilitation, publicity and area readiness for participants from around the world. It said private-sector support has come from hotels, resorts, spas, wellness hospitals, health businesses and Thai wellness brands.
Officials said preparations are being developed across the wellness supply chain, including personnel training through the Thai Wellness Therapist Program, upgrading businesses through the Thai Wellness Destination standard, and creating market access through the first National Thai Massage and Wellness Expo.
Phongsathorn said Thailand wants to present itself as a high-value wellness hub through three pillars. "The Science" will focus on medical wellness and Thai knowledge supported by research and scientific evidence, including Thai herbs, traditional medicine, anti-aging medicine and health innovation. "The Art" will highlight Thai soft power through healthy Thai food, premium wellness services, health-experience design and service standards. "The Soul" will showcase Thai identity through Thai massage, Thai herbs and a holistic approach to health.
He said a key feature of the summit will be business matching, investor links and presentations of wellness innovation from Thailand and abroad, with the aim of making the event a platform for economic opportunity, investment and international cooperation.
The department said hosting the summit is expected to benefit Thailand in three main dimensions: business and investment opportunities, national and area development, and improved quality of life and grassroots economic gains. It added that Phuket and the Andaman region are being positioned as a model global wellness destination through cooperation among the public sector, private sector and local stakeholders.
