PATTAYA, THAILAND – More than 20 million visitors flocked to Pattaya and Chonburi by September 2025 as authorities launched massive technology-driven upgrades aimed at redefining the city’s global tourism profile.
Record numbers and new investment
On 15 September 2025, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet reported that from January to September 2025, tourist arrivals exceeded 20 million, generating billions of baht in local income. He highlighted the success of the city’s countdown festival held in December 2024, which delivered measurable economic results.
“Our Countdown Event 2024 brought more than 5 billion baht (125 million euros) into city coffers.”
said Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya
The mayor confirmed that the 2025 event calendar would expand with additional festivals and sports gatherings designed to attract international audiences throughout the fourth quarter.
Three-point strategy for growth
According to Poramet Ngampichet, Pattaya’s development relies on three structural pillars: efficient city management, a strong healthcare system, and advanced digital infrastructure. These priorities form the measurable basis for the city’s transformation projects launched between 2024 and 2027.
“We ensure safe events and thrilled visitors.”
said Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya
The city administration confirmed investment in Koh Larn Island, which now receives new roadworks, AI-enabled cameras, and the construction of a medical clinic scheduled for completion by mid-2026.
Infrastructure and anti-flood measures
Data released by the Pattaya City Administration indicated that 5.3 kilometres of underground drainage pipes are being installed through “pipe-pulling” technology to eliminate flooding without dismantling road surfaces.
“The project is already half complete.”
said Pattaya City Administration
Officials stated that all sections will be operational by early 2027. The city simultaneously cleans main streets, expands promenades, and converts overhead powerlines into underground systems to advance its visual and environmental appeal.
AI surveillance network and control centre
Authorities have connected 2,500 CCTV cameras equipped with artificial intelligence directly to the national police monitoring system. The data-sharing arrangement allows real-time intervention during major tourism events in central Pattaya and Walking Street.
“Real-time monitoring detects and prevents incidents.”
said Pattaya City Administration
A 24-hour contact centre, operating in three languages, recorded over 250,000 calls in 2024, offering logistical support to residents and visitors across Pattaya, Jomtien, and Nong Prue.
LINE-based digital services for the public
Through the LINE OA @pattayaconnect platform, tourists and citizens can view more than 400 live traffic cameras, check upcoming events, or process local tax payments electronically.
“We are taking Pattaya to a new level.”
said Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya
The mayor emphasized that sustainable tourism and international sports events form the measurable trajectory for the city’s future economic stability. The administration projects additional system rollouts across 2025–2027 valued in several billion baht.
Key measurable outcomes
– 20 million tourists recorded by September 2025
– 5 billion baht revenue from 2024 Countdown Festival
– 5.3 km new drainage pipes under construction
– 2,500 AI cameras linked to police networks
– 250,000 service calls handled in 2024
– 400 live cameras available through LINE OA
Officials underline that the once party-focused coastal town is now pivoting toward data-driven city management and structured investment planning to reach its declared goal of world-class tourism competitiveness by 2027.
