Thailand’s Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana will inaugurate the Global Wellness Summit's (GWS) 20th anniversary on November 11 at Angsana Laguna Phuket.

The summit, held in Phuket, Thailand, from November 10 to 13, brings together international leaders and innovators to examine the future of an estimated $6.8 trillion global wellness economy.

Queen Suthida’s appearance places a prominent royal figure at the centre of a global conversation about health, fitness and the expanding wellness economy. Her connection to the sector extends beyond ceremonial patronage. Her sporting pursuits have helped shape an image of modern royalty grounded in physical discipline, athletic achievement and public engagement.

In 2025, she helped steer Thailand’s sailing team to a historic gold medal at the Southeast Asian Games, serving as strategist and navigator. The same year, she ran the half-marathon at the Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok alongside Olympic marathon great Eliud Kipchoge. She has also become the first Women’s Global Ambassador for the International Ice Hockey Federation, advocating greater visibility for women in sport.

These accomplishments have positioned the Queen as a prominent advocate of active living in Thailand, where wellness is increasingly associated with preventive health, fitness and quality of life.

Susie Ellis, GWS chair and chief executive, described the royal participation as a significant moment for the summit and its international delegates. She highlighted the Queen’s commitment to health, sport and wellness as an inspiration for the industry.

Jiří Dvořák, the summit’s 2026 co-chair and a professor of neurology at Schulthess Clinic Zurich and BDMS Wellness Clinic in Thailand, offered a more personal perspective. He said he had known the Queen for years through her training at the clinic’s musculoskeletal department, describing her as a high-performance athlete and a role model for her team and the wider nation.

This year’s gathering marks two decades of the organisation’s efforts to influence wellness policy, business and innovation worldwide.

Ayurveda and Health Tourism Magazine is a media partner of the event.