Macao Now Embraces Sports and Tourism with National Games, Drawing International Visitors

Published on November 16, 2025

With the integration of sports and tourism, Macao is welcoming an influx of guests during the 15th National Games. This year’s National Games, hosted for the first time in the Greater Bay Area, is a collaboration between the Guangdong Province, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), and the Macao SAR. Running from November 9th–21st in 2025, the National Games embody the spirit of Macao and provide an opportunity for the region’s diverse tourism, rich culture, and astounding landscapes to be internationally showcased.

The National Games’ strategic collaboration with the tourism industry has attracted many sport and recreational tourists to the region for the first time. During the event, Macao has proven to be a vibrant destination for travelers from the mainland, and all over the world, seeking world class sporting events coupled with culture and tourism.

Cultural Experiences Enhance the National Games Atmosphere

At the heart of Macao’s tourism push during the National Games is the integration of cultural experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s history and traditions. A cultural experience area has been set up at the Press Center, where journalists and visitors alike can explore Macao’s diverse heritage. The area showcases Macao’s intangible cultural heritage, offering an interactive look at traditional crafts, music, and local customs. These cultural booths provide an opportunity to experience Macao’s unique fusion of Chinese and Portuguese cultures, which has shaped its identity over the centuries.

Additionally, the Macao Museum has played a key role in introducing the city’s history to National Games participants. A special city cultural tour has been designed for athletes, spectators, and journalists to explore Macao’s historical landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic locations, all while deepening their understanding of the city’s cultural roots. According to Lou Ho Ian, Director of the Macao Museum, the aim is to ensure that all visitors not only attend the games but also connect with the essence of Macao through these immersive cultural experiences.

The “Sports Plus Tourism” Model: Attracting Visitors with a Unique Blend of Activities

Macao is capitalizing on a “sports plus tourism” model during the National Games, a strategy designed to offer more than just sporting events. The city is welcoming thousands of visitors—ranging from athletes and their families to international tourists—with a well-rounded itinerary that combines sports, culture, and tourism. The National Games have attracted sports enthusiasts from around the world, who are not only attending the competitions but are also eager to explore Macao’s world-class hotels, gourmet restaurants, and entertainment options.

This firsthand testimony highlights the appeal of Macao as a destination that can seamlessly combine the excitement of international sports events with opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Beyond attending the games, tourists are encouraged to visit the city’s many attractions, such as the Macao Tower, Senado Square, and the famous Macao Grand Prix circuit, all of which enhance the tourism experience during the event.

Culinary Delights and Large-Scale Events Add to the Visitor Experience

In addition to the sports and cultural activities, the Macao SAR government has rolled out an array of large-scale events and festivals to further enrich the visitor experience. One of the highlights is a food festival that celebrates Macao’s renowned culinary scene, known for its blend of Chinese, Portuguese, and Macanese flavors. The festival features local dishes and international cuisines, allowing visitors to indulge in Macao’s gastronomic delights while experiencing the city’s multicultural flair.

The food festival has proven to be a major draw for visitors, offering both residents and tourists the chance to sample a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes. The festival not only boosts the city’s tourism profile but also supports local businesses by attracting tourists who may not have originally planned to explore the culinary scene.

In addition to the food festival, a series of community events, performances, and cultural exhibitions have been organized to complement the National Games. These activities contribute to a festive atmosphere throughout the city, making Macao a hub of activity for both locals and visitors.

Macao’s Tourism Growth and Greater Bay Area Connectivity

Macao’s successful integration of sports and tourism during the 15th National Games is a testament to the city’s growing appeal as a global travel destination. As part of the Greater Bay Area initiative, Macao’s proximity to Guangdong Province and Hong Kong has made it an increasingly important part of the region’s tourism ecosystem. The interconnectedness of the area allows for seamless travel between the three regions, making it easier for tourists to explore multiple destinations during their visit.

This enhanced connectivity is expected to continue driving tourism growth in Macao, as the city becomes a key player in regional tourism. The National Games have provided a platform to showcase the potential of Macao’s tourism sector, encouraging visitors to explore not only the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage but also its modern attractions and world-class amenities.

Impact on Local Economy and Long-Term Tourism Growth

The influx of tourists during the 15th National Games has provided a much-needed boost to Macao’s tourism sector, contributing to the local economy by generating revenue for hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and local businesses. By integrating sports and tourism, Macao has been able to attract a diverse range of visitors, from international sports fans to those simply interested in exploring the city’s culture and heritage.

This successful blending of sports and tourism is likely to become a model for future events in Macao, positioning the city as a prime destination for large-scale international sports events, cultural festivals, and other major tourism initiatives. As Macao continues to grow in prominence on the global tourism map, the National Games have paved the way for future collaborations and events that will further enhance the city’s standing as a leading destination in Asia.

A Bright Future for Macao’s Sports and Tourism Sector

The 15th National Games in Macao marked a momentous development in Macaos Tourism Industry. Macao managed to showcase to the world its capability to draw in global tourists while also strengthening the local economy. Macao has a developed sporting infrastructure, large scale tourism activities and a world-class cultural experience. Located at the delta of the Greater Bay, Macao has a diverse cultural experience making it a prime candidate for tourists in pursuit of sporting and recreational activities. Given the completion of Macao’s planned tourism developments, Macao is certainly on the path to becoming one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the continent.