In 2023, Macau experienced a notable recovery in its tourism sector, with a total of 28.23 million visitors throughout the year, marking a significant step towards pre-pandemic levels. This resurgence is highlighted by an average daily arrival of 77,000, representing around 70% of the figures seen in 2019. The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has released provisional figures, shedding light on the dynamics of this rebound.
Visitor Arrivals Overview:
The year saw a remarkable finish, particularly in December, where daily averages reached 95,445 – an impressive 96% of December 2019 figures. Notably, on December 31, Macau recorded the highest single-day visitor arrivals since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic almost four years ago, with 175,030 visitors. This robust performance contributed significantly to the overall recovery.
Regional Breakdown:
A dominant factor in the recovery was the influx of visitors from mainland China, accounting for 94.2% of 2019 levels in December. The gradual rebound of international arrivals is also noteworthy, increasing from 10.1% of 2019 levels in January to an impressive 94.4% in December. On December 30 alone, Macau welcomed 11,258 international visitors, showcasing the diversification of its visitor mix.
Hotel Occupancy and Accommodation:
Hotel occupancy, a key indicator of the tourism sector’s health, reached 82.3% in December, as per early estimates. This was a slight dip from the peak in July 2023, where occupancy hit 89.4%. However, it is crucial to note that December’s hotel guest numbers surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching 103.5% of the 2019 figures. This surge in accommodation demand is a promising sign for the hospitality industry in Macau.
MGTO Initiatives and Future Prospects:
The MGTO played a pivotal role in facilitating this recovery and has expressed its commitment to continue promoting Macau tourism internationally. As a part of these efforts, Air Macau is set to continue operating flights between Macau and Kuala Lumpur in January 2024. This move aims to enhance the convenience for international visitors and further enrich the diverse mix of tourists visiting Macau.
The resurgence of Macau’s tourism industry in 2023 is a testament to the region’s resilience and adaptability in the face of global challenges. The impressive recovery in visitor numbers, particularly in December, reflects the effectiveness of strategic initiatives by the MGTO and the broader tourism sector. As Macau looks ahead to 2024, the positive trends observed in 2023 set a promising foundation for sustained growth and continued international appeal.