What foreigners should know during Thailand’s period of mourning

If you are in Thailand right now and you notice everyone dressed in black or white, and the mood everywhere feels a little heavy, there’s a reason for it.

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, passed away peacefully at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital on Friday night, October 24, 2025. She was 93.

Her passing has brought Thailand into a period of deep mourning. The government told public offices, state enterprises and schools to fly the flag at half-mast for 30 days. Civil servants and state enterprise employees are expected to mourn for a full year. Everyone else is encouraged to pay their respects in their own way.

For foreigners and expats, this is a time to quietly reflect and show some understanding for the country and its traditions.

Why it matters

You might ask yourself, why is everyone so serious about this? The monarchy is not just a formality in Thailand, it’s deeply woven into daily life. For many Thais, the royal family stands for unity and stability.

Queen Sirikit was not just the late King Bhumibol’s consort. She was loved for her work in rural development, the arts and keeping Thai culture alive.

When the country mourns, it shows up everywhere. Flags hang at half-mast. TV and radio turn down the volume, switching to more formal or somber programs.

Major events quiet down. For Thais, mourning is not just personal, it is something the whole nation does together and visitors are expected to be aware of that.

What visitors should know

During mourning, people in Thailand wear black or dark, muted clothes in public. Foreigners are not required to follow this, but dressing modestly and avoiding bright colors is a simple way to show respect.

If you are heading to a temple, government office or royal memorial, black or muted clothing is expected. Tourist spots are a little more relaxed, but it is still good to use your judgment and dress respectfully.

How to behave

Behavior matters, especially now. It is not the time for loud parties or public celebrations. If you see a flag being lowered or people pausing for a moment of silence, do the same – stand still and quiet.

Temples and royal sites may host ceremonies or tributes for the Queen Mother. Dress modestly, keep your voice down and watch what locals do.

Even if you are just grabbing dinner or walking around, a little respect goes a long way. Many Thais are grieving and showing you notice that helps build understanding.

Daily life continues, but quietly

Thailand keeps moving, but some things change.

Big entertainment events like concerts or festivals might be canceled, postponed or made more subdued. TV and radio usually switch to documentaries or formal news and presenters wear black. Tourist spots, hotels and restaurants stay open., but some activities might be scaled back. Check ahead for any schedule changes.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand reminds visitors: the country is open, but dress and act respectfully.

Showing respect

If you want, you can pay your respects as well. Condolence books might be set out at royal projects, temples or public offices.

If you join a public tribute, wear dark clothes and follow the crowd’s lead. If you want to say something to Thai friends or colleagues, a simple “I’m sorry for your loss” is enough.

A time for understanding

For foreigners and expats living in Thailand, observing the mourning period respectfully is not about following rules but about understanding the emotions that unify a nation in loss.

As daily life continues, a quiet gesture such as wearing dark clothing, speaking softly or pausing for a moment of silence can express solidarity more eloquently than words. In times of mourning, kindness and mindfulness transcend language and nationality.