Hong Kong welcomed more than 31 million visitors during the first seven months of 2026, extending a strong tourism recovery supported by mainland Chinese travelers, major international events and one of Asia’s largest aviation networks.
The city recorded 31.22 million arrivals between January and July, up about 11% from the same period in 2025. Mainland China remained overwhelmingly the largest source market, contributing 24.16 million visitors, an increase of 13%.
Another 7.05 million travelers arrived from outside mainland China, up 5% year over year.
July alone brought around 4.5 million visitors, approximately 3% more than a year earlier. Growth was restrained by unusually wet weather, with Hong Kong recording more than double its normal July rainfall after several periods of heavy rain and tropical cyclone activity.
Despite those conditions, long-haul travel showed particularly strong momentum. Long-haul arrivals increased 17% in July to more than 307,000, while visitors from newer source markets jumped 36%.
Business travel also contributed to the month’s performance. Major meetings, conventions and exhibitions including the Lions International Convention and technology event LEAP East helped attract international visitors.
Hong Kong has been reinforcing its position as both a leisure destination and an international business hub. Around 140 airlines connect the city with more than 225 destinations worldwide, giving travelers extensive direct and connecting options.
The expansion of Hong Kong International Airport is expected to strengthen that advantage further. Terminal 2 opened to passengers in May as part of a roughly US$14.5 billion airport development program aimed at increasing capacity and improving Hong Kong’s competitiveness against hubs such as Singapore Changi and Dubai International.
The terminal currently serves 15 airlines, with a strong presence from low-cost and regional carriers including AirAsia, IndiGo, Bangkok Airways, Cebu Pacific and Hainan Airlines.
Not every segment is expanding. Short-haul arrivals fell 9% in July and remained 3% lower across the first seven months. Rising fuel costs linked to the Middle East conflict have also pressured regional airline capacity.
Hong Kong is now looking to major events to maintain momentum through the rest of 2026.
The second-half calendar includes the Hong Kong Cyclothon, Wine & Dine Festival, Hong Kong WinterFest and New Year countdown celebrations, along with Mid-Autumn Festival and Halloween programming.
Tourism authorities are also encouraging travelers to explore more neighborhoods, stay longer and spend more during each trip.
With more than 31 million arrivals already recorded by July, Hong Kong is entering the second half of 2026 with tourism firmly back at the center of its economy and international identity.
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