Hong Kong experienced a landmark year in 2025, successfully hosting a diverse array of mega events that significantly boosted tourism and revitalized urban life. From major sporting competitions to international cultural festivals and business forums, the city demonstrated its robust hosting capabilities and innovative spirit, drawing millions of visitors and generating substantial economic benefits.
A City of Mega Events
The Kai Tak Sports Park, inaugurated in March 2025, played a pivotal role in Hong Kong’s event-driven strategy. This versatile venue, capable of transforming from a sports stadium to a cultural arena, hosted a packed schedule including the Hong Kong Sevens, top-tier football matches, the National Games, and a New Year’s Eve concert by renowned singer Zhou Shen. The park’s advanced modular lawn technology allows for rapid turf swaps, enabling it to accommodate a wide range of events.
Throughout 2025, Hong Kong’s calendar was filled with high-profile gatherings, starting with the Asian Financial Forum and culminating in international cultural galas. These events not only showcased the city’s capacity to host large-scale international functions but also fostered a sense of national identity and cultural integration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Economic Ripple Effects
The impact of these mega events extended far beyond the venues, significantly benefiting local businesses. Restaurants reported a surge in tourist numbers, with over 20% of their revenue attributed to event attendees. Hotels offered event-themed packages, and eateries creatively integrated local cuisine with event-related promotions. The HKSAR government actively supported these efforts through policy incentives and cross-sector collaboration, aiming to create a vibrant “tourism everywhere” environment.
The influx of tourists during events like the National Games led to a substantial increase in visitor numbers. By November 2025, Hong Kong had welcomed 45 million tourists, exceeding the previous year’s total. This growth was particularly notable among long-haul travelers from countries like Britain, Australia, and Russia, facilitated by visa-free policies and improved transportation links such as high-speed rail and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.
Tech-Empowered Tourism
Hong Kong is embracing technology to enhance the tourism experience. The “CITY IN TIME” smart tourism app in Kowloon City uses augmented reality to bring the history of Kai Tak to life, allowing visitors to see historical tidal flats and remnants of the old Kai Tak Airport alongside the modern cityscape. This initiative aligns with the “Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0,” which emphasizes smart tourism and the integration of events with city exploration.
Looking ahead to 2026, Hong Kong is set to continue its momentum with a calendar of cultural carnivals, business exchanges, and international competitions. The city’s unique blend of Chinese and Western cultures, coupled with its adaptability, positions it as a crucial gateway connecting the Greater Bay Area with the rest of the world.