Macao Welcomes Over 303,000 Visitors in First Two Days of Golden Week, Forecasts 1.2 Million for Eight-Day Holiday

Strong Start to Macao's Golden Week Holiday

Macao has experienced a significant influx of tourists during the initial phase of the 2025 October Golden Week holiday. The city recorded more than 303,000 visitor arrivals over the first two days, October 1st and 2nd. This strong start positions Macao to meet its ambitious forecast of welcoming approximately 1.2 million visitors throughout the entire eight-day holiday period, which concludes on October 8th.

Visitor Numbers Exceed Expectations

According to data from Macao's Public Security Police Force (PSP), the exact number of visitor arrivals for the first two days reached 303,786. This figure comprises 139,854 visitors on Wednesday, October 1st, and 163,932 on Thursday, October 2nd. The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) had projected an average of 150,000 visitors per day for the holiday, indicating that the initial days have performed as anticipated. This forecast surpasses the daily average of around 140,000 visitor arrivals recorded during the 2024 Golden Week.

Factors Driving the Surge and Preparations

The extended duration of this year's Golden Week, which combines China's National Day on October 1st with the Mid-Autumn Festival on October 6th, is a key factor contributing to the anticipated visitor surge. Additionally, favorable government policies, such as relaxed entry permits and multi-entry visa schemes for Chinese nationals, particularly from Zhuhai and Hengqin, have made it easier for tourists to visit Macao. Hotel occupancy rates are expected to remain robust, with projections indicating they will exceed 90 percent during the holiday period.

In anticipation of the large crowds, Macao authorities have implemented various measures, including designating temporary pedestrian zones in popular tourist areas like Taipa Village and near the Ruins of St. Paul's from October 1st to 7th. These preparations aim to manage visitor flow and enhance the overall tourist experience.

Outlook for Macao's Tourism Recovery

The impressive visitor numbers underscore Macao's continued recovery as a premier tourism and leisure destination. The sustained increase in arrivals and high hotel occupancy rates are expected to positively impact the city's economy, including both gaming revenue and non-gaming expenditures. This Golden Week performance is seen as a strong indicator of Macao's growing appeal and its efforts to attract a diverse range of visitors.