The Unmatched Wealth of King Rama X
With an eye-popping fortune of $43 billion, King Rama X isn’t just the wealthiest monarch in Thailand—he tops the global charts. Known formally as Maha Vajiralongkorn, he has held the crown since 2016. Unlike most public figures, he rarely makes appearances. However, in late September, he was spotted at the immensely popular Bangkok International Festival of Dance and Music, warmly welcoming the legendary Spanish opera singer Plácido Domingo as a special guest.
Just How Much Wealth Are We Talking?
- 17,000 properties spread across Thailand
- 38 private jets (yes, you read that right)
- 52 golden-adorned boats, each participating in the country’s traditional ceremonies
- Over 300 luxury cars, for when that royal motorcade just won’t do with fewer
His fortune is a finely balanced mix of inherited wealth and sharp business acumen. While his family legacy set the stage, Rama X has certainly not just coasted on tradition.
How Did He Build His Fortune?
After ascending the throne on October 13, 2016, following the passing of his father, the beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama X inherited untold riches—including control over the Crown Property Bureau, which managed royal assets until 2018. According to reports, this institution oversees approximately 6,560 hectares of Thailand’s prime land. Nationwide, there are an additional 40,000 lease contracts, with a staggering 17,000 of those in Bangkok alone.
It doesn’t stop there. In the bustling capital, these thousands of properties generate significant rental income. But the King isn’t content with just collecting rents—his activities extend to large-scale and high-value real estate projects. The king also owns substantial stakes in leading Thai companies:
- Primarily in the telecommunications sector
- And in energy
As noted by Gazzetta, these strategic investments showcase « a monarch who knows how to seize opportunity »—always looking for ways to extend his influence (and perhaps his already enormous balance sheet).
The Making of a Monarch
Maha Vajiralongkorn’s path to the throne was paved from his very earliest years. He received an education at military academies in Australia and the United Kingdom before undergoing pilot training for both fighter jets and helicopters. Even in his youth, he took part in
« military missions against insurrections alongside the Royal Thai Army, »
according to media reports. In Thailand, people often reflect on his dual nature: the King regularly moves between deep-rooted tradition and ostentatious displays of wealth. It’s a royal balancing act, and he seems quite at home with the extremes.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
