Tourism
Phuket Authorities Order Closure of Nine Illegal Hotels
Phuket officials have initiated a crackdown on unlicensed hospitality businesses, resulting in the immediate closure of nine establishments.
According to a report by Thai Post on September 2, 2026, Phuket provincial authorities have launched a campaign to ensure all hospitality businesses comply with local regulations. Siwat Rawang-kul, the acting Phuket Provincial Clerk and District Chief of Mueang Phuket, stated that the province is strictly enforcing hotel operation laws. As part of this ongoing initiative, nine hotels found to be operating without the required legal permits have been ordered to cease operations immediately.
This enforcement action is part of a broader effort to regulate the tourism sector in Phuket, which currently hosts over 1,000 legally licensed hotels. For travelers and residents, this development highlights the importance of verifying the legal status of accommodation providers. Staying in unlicensed properties may pose risks regarding safety standards, insurance coverage, and service reliability.
While the authorities have confirmed the closure of these nine specific properties, the names of the affected hotels have not been publicly disclosed in the initial report. It remains to be confirmed whether further inspections are planned for other areas of the island or if additional closures will follow as the province continues its regulatory oversight. Visitors are encouraged to check official provincial listings to ensure their chosen accommodation is fully compliant with Thai law.