Chiang Mai has been named among the world’s top destinations for digital nomads and creators in a new Forbes ranking for 2026.
The city was placed alongside global destinations including Medellín, Cape Town, Lisbon, Bali, Mexico City, Tokyo, and Berlin, reflecting a broader shift in how digital professionals choose where to live and work.
According to Forbes, digital nomads are increasingly becoming “digital entrepreneurs,” prioritising locations with strong business ecosystems, networking opportunities and income potential, rather than only low costs and lifestyle benefits.
Chiang Mai was highlighted for its expanding co-working scene, café culture and infrastructure that supports location-independent businesses.
The recognition aligns with the city’s wider ambitions to position itself as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) hub, with strategies focusing on international business networking, creative industry development and cultural innovation rooted in Lanna heritage.
Local authorities aim to strengthen Chiang Mai’s role as a global centre for conferences and professional associations, while also promoting a “festival economy” that blends culture and digital innovation.
The Forbes ranking is seen as a boost for the city ahead of the planned MICE City Summit 2027.
