Hong Kong Sees 19% Surge in Long-Haul Travelers Amid New Routes and Mega Events
Hong Kong's tourism industry is rebounding strongly, driven by expanded flight connections and a calendar filled with world-class events attracting global visitors.
Hong Kong has recorded a significant 19% increase in tourists from long-haul markets, fueled by strategic expansions in international flight routes. New approvals for flights to destinations like Belgrade and Zagreb, along with Cathay Pacific's upcoming direct service to Almaty, are making the city more accessible than ever for travelers coming from Europe and Central Asia.
Beyond logistics, Hong Kong’s vibrant event calendar is a major draw for international visitors. Large-scale festivals such as the Hong Kong Football Festival 2026 and various international music awards have successfully attracted visitors from the U.K. and other distant markets. This focus on "Only in Hong Kong" experiences continues with upcoming seasonal highlights like the Wine & Dine Festival.
Despite a slight 5% dip in short-haul arrivals, the city welcomed over 40 million visitors in the first nine months of 2026. Ranked as the world’s second most visited city after Bangkok, Hong Kong is on track to reach 53.8 million tourists by year-end, solidifying its status as a premier global hub for MICE and event tourism.
Travelers visiting Vietnam can easily pair their trip with Hong Kong using regional carriers like Cathay Pacific or budget airlines for a diverse multi-city Asian itinerary.
Source reference: VnExpress International