The Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has revived its incentive campaign, offering free transportation for international visitors travelling through Hong Kong, in a proactive effort to attract a greater number of global tourists to the city, particularly as the gaming industry continues to thrive in the region.
Scheduled to resume from 1 May to 31 December 2025, the initiative will offer free one-way ferry or bus tickets to eligible international travellers travelling from Hong Kong to Macau. The campaign aims to lure tourists visiting Hong Kong to extend their visit to Macau, thus creating a multi-destination experience.
However, the scheme is exclusively available to international tourists. According to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), the initiative does not include travelers from mainland China and Hong Kong— collectively referred to as the Greater China region — as the primary objective remains to attract non-regional visitors and diversify Macau’s tourism base.
Ties with local transport firms
The scheme is being delivered in partnership with several key transport operators, including Hong Kong Airport Passenger Services, TurboJET, and Cotai Water Jet. These operators will issue complimentary one-way tickets on designated ferry and bus routes to qualifying tourists.
The campaign reflects MGTO’s broader strategy to reposition Macau as a global tourism hub rather than a destination primarily known for gaming and regional travel. Officials hope to build on the success of earlier versions of the programme, first launched in 2023 and extended through 2024.
According to MGTO data, the previous initiative resulted in over 310,000 visitor journeys to Macau, significantly supporting post-pandemic recovery. These visits resulted in increased spending at local businesses, services, and attractions.
Preparations on for long haul
This year’s campaign coincides with a wider ramp-up of cross-border travel services in the region. Ferry operators such as TurboJET and Cotai Water Jet have recently increased the number of sailings between Hong Kong and Macau to meet growing demand, particularly during holiday periods.
New services have also been introduced, connecting Macau’s Taipa Ferry Terminal to other cities on the mainland, such as Zhongshan. Passenger volumes have surged on routes between Hong Kong and Guangzhou.
MGTO hopes the improved transport connectivity, combined with the continued ticket giveaway, will strengthen Macau’s appeal as a stopover for long-haul international travellers, especially those flying into Hong Kong.
The tourism authority is expected to monitor the scheme’s effectiveness through key performance indicators, including visitor numbers, spending data, and the uptake rate of the free transport offers.
