Macao Unveils Smart Tourism Future As World Tourism Day 2026 Blends AI Innovation With Heritage

On 27 September, 2026, Macao, under the theme of “World Tourism Day”, promoted local tourism and surrounding community activities. The celebration demonstrated how Macao is transforming itself as an innovative and smart tourism hub. This year’s celebration also used digital and smart technology to create activities integrated with tourism and culture to provide advanced tourism experiences to the community.

The celebrations were organised by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) to mark the annual global tourism observance established by UN Tourism. The programme combined cultural traditions, community exploration, technology-driven experiences and entertainment events under the 2026 World Tourism Day theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.”

The events reflected Macao’s ambition to strengthen its position as a world centre of tourism and leisure by blending heritage, hospitality and emerging technologies.

Lucky Tourists Discover Macao Through Local Communities And Culinary Experiences

As part of the World Tourism Day celebrations, MGTO welcomed special Lucky Tourists arriving in Macao through the Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.

The visitors received souvenirs and electronic consumption cards designed to encourage them to explore local neighbourhoods, experience community-based tourism and discover the city beyond its major attractions.

The Lucky Tourists included travellers from Switzerland and Thailand who were visiting Macao as part of a combined Macao and Hong Kong journey. For one visitor, it was the first trip to Macao, while for another it was the second visit.

During their stay, they planned to explore Macao’s historic districts, enjoy local cuisine and experience the unique character of neighbourhood tourism.

Throughout the day, MGTO also distributed souvenirs at tourist information counters across the city, allowing more visitors to participate in the World Tourism Day celebrations and connect with Macao’s tourism offerings.

Smart Tour Macao Tray Race Brings Tourism Workers Together In Festive Celebration

The highlight of the World Tourism Day programme was the traditional Tray Race, an iconic event that celebrates the skills, energy and dedication of Macao’s tourism and hospitality workforce.

The 2026 edition was organised under the theme “Smart Tour Macao”, reflecting the global focus on digital transformation and artificial intelligence in tourism.

A total of 204 contestants representing 30 hotels and restaurants participated in the competition, which featured separate male and female categories. Winners received prizes for first, second and third places, along with special recognition for the Best Costume Award.

The contestants gathered at the Ruins of St. Paul’s, one of Macao’s most famous heritage landmarks, before beginning the race through the Historic Centre of Macao.

Participants carried trays with bottles of Macau Beer while navigating the city’s historic streets and attempting to reach the finish line at Senado Square in the shortest possible time.

The exciting competition attracted large crowds of residents and visitors. Spectators gathered along the route to cheer for contestants, capture photographs and enjoy the lively atmosphere created by the event.

The race showcased Macao’s ability to combine cultural heritage with entertainment, community participation and tourism promotion.

Mascots Parade Adds Colour And Technology To World Tourism Day Festivities

Adding further excitement to the celebrations, the Mascots Parade became another major attraction during the event.

A total of 27 mascots participated in the parade, including Macao Tourism Mascot MAK MAK from MGTO and characters representing government departments, tourism organisations, integrated resorts, community groups and retail businesses.

The mascots were dressed in creative costumes and carried themed props inspired by “Smart Tour Macao.”

Beginning near St. Dominic’s Church, the mascots travelled towards Senado Square while interacting with visitors and creating a cheerful atmosphere throughout the historic district.

The parade highlighted how tourism experiences can be enhanced through creativity, entertainment and technology-driven engagement.

The colourful performance also demonstrated Macao’s efforts to create memorable experiences for both residents and international travellers.

Winners Recognised For Outstanding Performances

The 2026 World Tourism Day Tray Race recognised outstanding performances across multiple categories.

In the male competition, Liu Weipeng representing Venetian Cotai Ltd secured the first prize. In the female category, Marlar Myint from Nova Galaxy Entretenimento 2006 Companhia Limitada achieved the top position.

The Best Costume Awards were presented to Ma Kuok Tong representing Morpheus in the male category and Yang Chunling from Nova Galaxy Entretenimento 2006 Companhia Limitada in the female category.

The Mascots Parade also announced its winners. The first prize went to “May” from M8, while “Ho Sio Chong” from Mung Animation Company Limited received second place. “Wavey” from Galaxy Entertainment Group secured third place.

During the award ceremony, MGTO’s MAK MAK performed the dance “Soar with MAK MAK” alongside robots, creating a technology-focused entertainment experience.

The performance represented the growing connection between tourism and technology, showing how artificial intelligence and digital innovation can support new forms of visitor engagement.

Macao Highlights Future Of Tourism Through Digital Innovation And AI

World Tourism Day has been observed every year on 27 September since 1980 after being established by UN Tourism to raise global awareness about tourism’s social, cultural, economic and political importance.

The 2026 theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” focuses on how advanced technologies can reshape the future of travel.

AI and digital tools are increasingly being used by destinations worldwide to improve visitor services, support smarter decision-making, strengthen tourism skills and create more sustainable travel experiences.

Macao’s World Tourism Day celebrations reflected this global shift by combining traditional cultural events with technology-based activities.

Through initiatives such as the Smart Tour Macao Tray Race, mascot parade and community tourism experiences, Macao demonstrated how destinations can preserve heritage while embracing innovation.

The celebrations also reinforced the city’s role as an international tourism and leisure hub, where culture, hospitality, technology and community experiences come together to create new opportunities for travellers.