Connecting with friends, family, or business associates in Thailand from the UK might seem complicated at first glance. Different time zones, dialing codes, and potential costs can make anyone hesitant. However, making an international call from the UK to Thailand is simpler than you think with the right information.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your calls go through smoothly. We will cover everything from essential dialing codes to finding the most affordable options. Whether you are phoning a loved one, planning a holiday, or managing business operations, you will gain the confidence to easily reach Thailand. You can even check current time differences between the UK and Thailand to plan your call perfectly using a tool like World Time Buddy.

Understanding International Dialing

Before you dive into the specifics, it helps to understand the general structure of an international call. Every international call requires a few key components in a specific order. You will typically start with an exit code, which tells your phone system you are dialing outside your current country. Next comes the country code for the destination. Following that, you add a local area code, and finally, the specific phone number. Knowing these components makes calling any country much less daunting.

Essential Codes for Calling Thailand from UK

To successfully call Thailand from UK, you need three crucial numbers. These codes ensure your call correctly leaves the UK and arrives at the right network in Thailand. Getting them right is the first step to a successful connection.

UK to Thailand Calling Code

The UK to Thailand calling code sequence is a combination of the UK’s international exit code and Thailand’s country code.

• UK Exit Code: This code signals that you are making an international call from the United Kingdom. It is “00”.
• Thailand Country Code: This code directs your call to Thailand. It is “66”.

Therefore, to start your call, you will always dial “0066” before the specific Thai number.

Here is a quick overview:

Calling Thailand from UK: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you know the essential codes, making the call is straightforward. The method varies slightly depending on whether you are using a landline or a mobile phone. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your call connects.

Calling from a Landline

1. Dial the UK Exit Code: First, dial “00” from your landline phone. This tells your phone provider you are making an international call.
2. Enter Thailand’s Country Code: Immediately after the exit code, dial “66”. This connects you to Thailand’s telephone network.
3. Add the Area Code: Next, dial the specific area code for the city or region in Thailand you are calling. Remember to omit any leading “0” if the area code starts with one when calling internationally. (More on area codes below).
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Finally, dial the local Thai phone number. This is the individual number of the person or business you wish to reach.

Your full dialing sequence will look something like this: 00 + 66 + [Area Code] + [Local Phone Number].

How to Call Thailand from UK Mobile

How to call Thailand from UK mobile phones is very similar to landlines, but with one convenient shortcut. Mobile phones often allow you to replace the “00” exit code with a plus symbol (+).

1. Dial the Plus Symbol or Exit Code: Press and hold the “0” key on your mobile phone until a “+” symbol appears. Alternatively, you can dial “00”. The “+” symbol is a universal international dialing prefix.
2. Enter Thailand’s Country Code: After the “+” or “00”, dial “66”.
3. Add the Area Code: Then, dial the specific area code for the Thai location. Again, remember to drop any initial “0”.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Complete the sequence by dialing the local Thai phone number.

So, your mobile dialing sequence will typically be: +66 + [Area Code] + [Local Phone Number] or 00 + 66 + [Area Code] + [Local Phone Number]. The “+” symbol is often preferred for international calls from mobile phones as it works worldwide.

Thailand Area Codes

Area codes are an essential part of the complete phone number in Thailand, just like in many other countries. These codes direct your call to a specific geographical region within Thailand. You must include the correct area code after the country code and before the local number. Thai local numbers generally range from 7 to 9 digits, including the area code.

Phone Number Format for Thailand

When you call Thailand, the full format looks like this:

[UK Exit Code or ‘+’] + [Thailand Country Code] + [Area Code] + [Local Phone Number]

For example, if you are calling a landline in Bangkok (area code 2) with the local number 1234 5678, you would dial:

• From a Landline: 00 66 2 1234 5678
• From a Mobile: +66 2 1234 5678

Important Note: When calling a Thai mobile phone from abroad, you generally do not need a specific “area code” in the traditional sense. Thai mobile numbers already include a prefix (like ’08’ or ’09’) that acts similarly. When dialing internationally, you often drop the leading ‘0’ from this mobile prefix. So, a Thai mobile number like 08X-YYYY-ZZZZ becomes +66 8X YYYY ZZZZ. Always confirm the exact number with your contact.

Here are some common area codes for major Thai cities:

Remember to omit any leading “0” from these area codes when dialing internationally. For instance, a local might tell you the Bangkok area code is “02,” but you will only dial “2” after “0066” or “+66.”

Best Time for Calling Thailand

Considering the time difference is crucial when planning your international calls UK to Thailand. You certainly do not want to wake someone up in the middle of the night!

The United Kingdom observes Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during winter and British Summer Time (BST) during summer. Thailand, however, observes Indochina Time (ICT), which is GMT+7.

Here is how the time difference usually breaks down:

• During UK Winter (GMT): Thailand is 7 hours ahead of the UK.

If it is 9:00 AM in the UK, it is 4:00 PM in Thailand.

• During UK Summer (BST): Thailand is 6 hours ahead of the UK.

If it is 9:00 AM in the UK, it is 3:00 PM in Thailand.

To find the best time to call, simply calculate the difference based on the current time in the UK.

Ideal Calling Windows:

• For Personal Calls: If you want to chat during Thailand’s evening (e.g., 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM), you should call from the UK between 12:00 PM (noon) and 3:00 PM (during BST) or 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM (during GMT).
• For Business Calls: To reach businesses during their standard working hours (e.g., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Thailand), you would typically need to call quite early from the UK. This means calling between 2:00 AM and 10:00 AM (during BST) or 3:00 AM and 11:00 AM (during GMT). This highlights the challenges of transatlantic business communications.

Always double-check the current time in both locations before making an important call. Many online tools and smartphone apps can quickly show you current world times.

Cost of Calling Thailand from UK

The cost of calling Thailand from the UK can vary significantly depending on your phone provider, the type of line you are using (landline or mobile), and your specific calling plan. Historically, international calls UK to Thailand were quite expensive.

Here are the main factors influencing the cost:

• Landline Providers: Traditional landline providers often charge per minute for international calls. These rates can be high, especially if you do not have an international calling plan or add-on. Rates can differ between calling a Thai landline and a Thai mobile.
• Mobile Network Operators: Calling from your UK mobile can also be pricey. Pay-as-you-go rates are usually the most expensive. Some contracts include international minutes, but these might be limited or exclude certain countries. Always check your specific mobile plan details.
• Bundles and Add-ons: Many providers offer international calling bundles or add-ons for a monthly fee. These can significantly reduce your per-minute cost if you make frequent calls.
• Call Type: Calling a Thai landline is generally cheaper than calling a Thai mobile number, though this trend is changing with VoIP services.

Without a special plan, you could expect to pay anywhere from 20p to over £1 per minute, making long conversations very costly. This is why many people look for the cheapest calls UK to Thailand options, often turning to alternative services.

How Telfon Can Be Useful for Calling Thailand

Finding the cheapest calls UK to Thailand and ensuring reliable communication is a top priority for many. This is where services like Telfon become incredibly valuable. Telfon offers a modern, cost-effective solution for international calling, including to Thailand.

Telfon is a virtual phone calling app that leverages cloud telephony to provide affordable and feature-rich communication. It helps both individuals and businesses connect globally without the high costs of traditional phone providers.

Here is how Telfon can make calling Thailand easier and more affordable:

• Virtual Number Thailand Telfon: Telfon allows you to purchase a virtual number Thailand Telfon. This means you can have a local Thai phone number, even if you are based in the UK. When your contacts in Thailand call this virtual number, they pay local rates (or it’s free if part of their local plan), and the call seamlessly routes to you. This is an excellent feature for businesses with clients in Thailand or for individuals who want to be easily reachable by their Thai contacts without them incurring international charges.
• Cost-Effective International Calls: Telfon offers competitive rates for direct international calls to over 180 countries, including Thailand. Their rates are significantly lower than traditional landline or mobile providers, helping you save money on every conversation. You can enjoy clear call quality without worrying about exorbitant per-minute charges.
• Enhanced Communication Features: Beyond just calling, Telfon provides a suite of features that enhance your communication experience:

Call Recordings: Record important conversations for later reference, ideal for business discussions or keeping memories of personal calls.

SMS & Broadcast Messages: Send and receive SMS messages to Thai numbers, and even send broadcast messages to multiple contacts simultaneously.

WhatsApp Integration: Integrate multiple WhatsApp accounts, making it easy to manage communications through a widely used platform in Thailand.

Multi-Country Numbers: Manage virtual numbers from various countries, perfect for individuals or businesses with a global presence.

Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message. Voicemail options include transcription to text, so you can read your messages quickly.

Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to another number, ensuring you are always available.

• Ease of Use: Telfon’s software is designed to be user-friendly. You can manage your calls, numbers, and settings easily from an intuitive interface, making it accessible for everyone from casual users to busy professionals.
• Business Benefits: For businesses, Telfon offers additional features like user analytics, dashboard filters, user management, budget assignment, and custom messaging services. This makes it an ideal cloud phone system for international hiring, customer support, sales, and marketing teams interacting with the Thai market.

By using Telfon, you gain a powerful tool that not only simplifies the process of making international calls UK to Thailand but also provides a cost-effective and feature-rich communication platform.

Why Call Thailand?

People connect with Thailand for a myriad of reasons, spanning personal ties, travel plans, and professional endeavors. The vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and growing economy make it a destination for many different types of interactions.

• Staying Connected with Loved Ones: Many people from the UK have friends or family living, working, or studying in Thailand. Regular calls are essential for maintaining these precious relationships, sharing news, and offering support across continents.
• Business and Investment Opportunities: Thailand boasts a dynamic economy and is a hub for tourism, manufacturing, and various service industries. UK businesses frequently call to manage operations, communicate with partners, negotiate deals, or explore new investment opportunities. Effective communication is vital for these cross-border ventures.
• Travel Planning and Logistics: Thailand is a dream destination for many UK tourists. Calling ahead to hotels, tour operators, or local contacts can help with booking accommodations, arranging transport, confirming itineraries, or simply asking for local advice before or during a trip.
• Cultural Exchange and Learning: Some individuals call Thailand to engage in language practice, cultural exchanges, or academic research. Direct conversation offers an invaluable way to deepen understanding and connect on a personal level.
• Emergency Situations: In urgent situations, making a direct call is often the quickest and most reliable way to reach someone in Thailand, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Regardless of the reason, a clear, reliable, and affordable way to call Thailand from UK is incredibly important.

Tips for Smooth International Calls

Making international calls can be seamless if you follow a few practical tips. These suggestions help avoid common issues and ensure a successful connection.

• Double-Check the Time Zone: Always confirm the current time in Thailand before dialing. Use online time converters to prevent calling at inconvenient hours. This is especially important for business calls.
• Verify the Phone Number: Confirm the complete dialing code and local number with your contact. A single digit error can prevent your call from connecting. Ask them to send the full international format.
• Check Your Internet Connection (for VoIP services): If you are using a VoIP service like Telfon, ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection. A poor connection can lead to dropped calls or poor audio quality.
• Be Mindful of Cultural Nuances: In Thailand, politeness is highly valued. A friendly greeting and respectful tone go a long way. Be aware of any cultural practices that might influence communication.
• Consider a Backup Method: Have an alternative communication method ready, such as email or a messaging app, in case you experience issues with your call.

Key Takeaways

Calling Thailand from the UK is straightforward when you have the right information. Here are the most important points to remember:

• The international dialing prefix from the UK to Thailand is 0066 or +66 from a mobile.
• Always include the specific Thai area code after the country code, omitting any leading zero.
• Thailand is 6 or 7 hours ahead of the UK, depending on British Summer Time. Plan your calls accordingly.
• Traditional international calls can be expensive; always check your provider’s rates.
• Services like Telfon offer a cost-effective and feature-rich alternative for international calls UK to Thailand, including virtual number Thailand Telfon options.
• Verify all numbers and time zones before making your call for a smooth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

People often have specific questions about making international calls UK to Thailand. Here are some common queries and their answers:

What is the dialing code for Thailand from the UK?

The dialing code for Thailand from the UK is 0066 (from a landline) or +66 (from a mobile). You will dial this before the Thai area code and local number.

Is it expensive to call Thailand from the UK?

It can be expensive if you use traditional landline or mobile providers without an international calling plan. Rates can be high per minute. However, services like Telfon offer much more affordable rates, making it possible to make cheapest calls UK to Thailand.

Can I use WhatsApp to call Thailand?

Yes, you can use WhatsApp to call Thailand if both parties have the app and an internet connection. Telfon also offers WhatsApp integration, allowing you to manage multiple WhatsApp accounts through their platform, which can be beneficial for businesses.

Do I need an area code for every call to Thailand?

Yes, if you are calling a Thai landline, you need to include the specific area code for that region after the country code. For Thai mobile numbers, you generally drop the leading ‘0’ from the mobile prefix (e.g., ’08’) when dialing internationally.

How can I make the cheapest calls UK to Thailand?

To make the cheapest calls UK to Thailand, consider using VoIP services like Telfon. They offer significantly lower per-minute rates compared to traditional phone companies and often include features that further reduce costs, such as virtual numbers.

What is the time difference between UK and Thailand?

Thailand is 7 hours ahead of the UK during Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter, and 6 hours ahead during British Summer Time (BST) in summer.

Can I get a Thai virtual number in the UK?

Yes, with services like Telfon, you can acquire a virtual number Thailand Telfon. This allows your contacts in Thailand to call a local Thai number, which then rings on your phone in the UK, often at no extra cost to them.

What happens if I forget to drop the ‘0’ from a Thai area code or mobile prefix?

If you forget to drop the leading ‘0’ from a Thai area code or mobile prefix when dialing internationally, your call will likely not connect, or it might connect to the wrong number. The international dialing system automatically handles the country’s internal “trunk” code (the leading ‘0’).

Conclusion

Calling Thailand from the UK is a straightforward process once you understand the necessary codes and steps. Whether you are using a traditional landline, a mobile phone, or a modern solution like Telfon, staying connected with your contacts in Thailand is easily achievable.

By following this guide, you now have the knowledge to confidently make your calls, manage costs, and navigate time differences. For those seeking the most affordable and feature-rich way to make international calls UK to Thailand, Telfon provides an excellent solution. It simplifies global communication, making it accessible, efficient, and cost-effective for everyone. Why wait? Start connecting with Thailand today!