Macau’s anticipated surge in visitor numbers during the extended Labour Day break fell short of expectations, with just over 604,000 visitors recorded, as reported across multiple media outlets. This figure represented a daily average of around 121,000, notably below the 130,000 forecasted by tourism officials. 

Last month, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), anticipated a surge in inbound tourism to Macau for the Labour Day holiday.  

Weather conditions impact arrival figures?

Unfavourable weather conditions, including rain and gusty winds throughout the Labour Day break, likely contributed to the lower-than-expected visitor numbers. Particularly severe weather conditions were experienced on Saturday, marked by the issuance of the year’s first black rainstorm warning. 

Contrasting trends in entry and exit figures?

Despite the subdued arrival numbers, the total entries and exits recorded at all of Macau’s border checkpoints saw a notable 11.6 percent year-on-year increase, totaling 2.43 million. This uptick suggests continued mobility despite challenges in visitor arrivals. 

Comparison to pre-pandemic levels?

The total visitor numbers recorded between May 1 and May 5 accounted for nearly 85 percent of the comparable figures from 2019, marking a significant recovery towards pre-pandemic levels. This trend underscores Macau’s resilience in rebounding from the impact of Covid-19 on travel and tourism. 

Duration of Labour Day break??

While Labour Day itself is a single-day holiday in Macau, it extends to a three-day break on the Chinese mainland, which constitutes Macau’s primary source of visitors. When combined with the weekend, this creates a five-day vacation period for mainland Chinese travellers, traditionally contributing to increased tourism activity in Macau. 

Despite challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, Macau’s ability to attract many visitors during the Labour Day break reflects continued interest in the destination and ongoing efforts towards tourism recovery. 

New Macau-Hengqin multi-entry group visa takes effect?

Meanwhile, starting Monday, a?multi-entry visa system tailored for Chinese nationals participating in package tours will launch, facilitating travel between Macau and the nearby Hengqin. The initiative, unveiled by China’s National Immigration Administration, enables package tour participants to enjoy unrestricted movement between the two regions for up to seven days.?

Upcoming SiGMA event: SiGMA Asia 2024, 2 – 5 June. Find all the details?here.

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