Vietnam joins China, Thailand, USA, South Korea, Indonesia, France and Japan in Driving Massive Travel Momentum as Emirates, AirAsia and Marriott Align with Cambodia’s UNESCO 75-Year Heritage Tourism Vision for 2026

Published on February 25, 2026

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Vietnam, China and Thailand are powering Cambodia’s tourism resurgence at a pivotal moment, as the Kingdom prepares to mark 75 years of UNESCO membership in 2026 with culture and heritage placed firmly at the center of its global travel strategy. Official tourism data shows Cambodia welcomed more than 6.7 million international visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, while arrivals in 2025 have continued on a strong upward trajectory, led largely by regional markets and supported by rising air connectivity into Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. These three countries alone account for a substantial share of total arrivals, underscoring Southeast Asia’s role as the engine of Cambodia’s recovery, even as long-haul markets such as the United States, France, Japan and South Korea steadily rebuild momentum. With UNESCO-backed conservation of Angkor, Sambor Prei Kuk, Preah Vihear and Koh Ker reinforcing Cambodia’s global cultural appeal, and expanded airport capacity enhancing accessibility, the stage is being set for a heritage-led tourism surge that could redefine travel flows across mainland Southeast Asia in 2026.

Vietnam Joins China, Thailand, USA, South Korea, Indonesia, France and Japan in Driving Massive Travel Momentum

Cambodia is preparing for a defining tourism milestone in 2026. The country will mark 75 years of membership in UNESCO. Tourism is now positioned at the center of that celebration. The strategy is clear. Cambodia will elevate cultural and heritage tourism. It will protect its World Heritage sites. It will expand its creative economy. And it will invite the world to rediscover Angkor and beyond.

Recent official tourism data confirms strong recovery momentum. Cambodia welcomed more than 6.7 million international visitors in 2024, slightly surpassing pre-pandemic levels. In the first eleven months of 2025 alone, more than 5.17 million international arrivals were recorded. Air arrivals exceeded 2.6 million in that period. These numbers show sustained growth. They also explain why airlines and global hotel brands are positioning early for 2026.

The tourism spotlight is widening. Cambodia is no longer promoting Angkor alone. It is presenting a national heritage narrative. UNESCO cooperation is reinforcing conservation standards. It is also strengthening Cambodia’s global visibility.

Vietnam Joins China, Thailand, USA, South Korea, Indonesia, France and Japan in Driving Massive Travel Momentum

Regional markets are leading Cambodia’s tourism rebound. Official figures show Vietnam, China and Thailand consistently ranking among the top source markets. In 2024, Thailand accounted for over 2.1 million visitors. Vietnam contributed more than 1.3 million arrivals. China followed with nearly 850,000 visitors. The USA, South Korea, Indonesia, France, the UK and Japan also remained strong contributors.

In 2025, Vietnam and China have continued to dominate inbound numbers, each contributing more than one million visitors in the first eleven months. Thailand remains close behind. The pattern is clear. Short-haul regional markets drive volume. Long-haul markets drive value.

Vietnam’s role is especially significant. Cross-border travel flows are strong. Connectivity between Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Cambodian cities supports weekend breaks and multi-country itineraries. Thailand’s proximity fuels both land and air travel. China’s return strengthens high-spend group and leisure segments.

The USA, France, the UK and Japan represent long-haul heritage travelers. These visitors typically stay longer. They spend more per trip. They often include Angkor, Phnom Penh and coastal destinations in the same itinerary.

This mix creates resilience. Cambodia is not dependent on one market. It benefits from diversified demand. The UNESCO anniversary strategy builds on that foundation.

Vietnam Joins China, Thailand, USA, South Korea, Indonesia, France and Japan as Emirates, AirAsia and Marriott Align with Cambodia’s UNESCO 75-Year Heritage Tourism Vision

Airlines are central to Cambodia’s tourism expansion. Air arrivals represent a large share of total international visitors. In 2024, nearly 2.4 million tourists entered by air. In 2025, that figure rose above 2.6 million in just eleven months. This increase shows renewed airline confidence.

Major carriers are reinforcing connectivity. Emirates operates services connecting global markets to Phnom Penh via Dubai and regional hubs. AirAsia provides strong low-cost links from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, supporting short-haul leisure traffic. Singapore Airlines maintains connectivity via Singapore, linking Cambodia with Europe, Australia and North America. Qatar Airways connects through Doha, expanding long-haul access.

Vietnam Airlines and Thai Airways play key regional roles. Korean Air and other Northeast Asian carriers connect Cambodia with Seoul and beyond. These links are critical for heritage tourism growth. Long-haul travelers depend on seamless connections.

Airport infrastructure has improved. The new Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport enhances capacity for larger aircraft. Phnom Penh’s upgraded aviation facilities are designed to support increasing passenger volumes. Expanded runway and terminal capacity allow for higher frequency flights.

More flights mean greater accessibility. Greater accessibility fuels hotel occupancy. Hotel occupancy growth remains gradual but steady. Luxury and upper-upscale properties recorded occupancy improvements in early 2025 compared to the previous year. International hotel groups continue to invest. Marriott International, Hilton and Accor operate multiple properties across Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Hyatt also maintains a presence in the capital.

Global hospitality brands see long-term potential. Heritage tourism attracts culturally motivated travelers. These guests often prefer internationally branded accommodation. They seek service consistency and premium amenities.

Cambodia’s UNESCO Heritage Assets Set the Stage for 2026

Cambodia’s tourism strategy revolves around its World Heritage portfolio. Angkor remains the anchor. The Angkor Archaeological Park spans hundreds of square kilometers and includes Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm. It is one of Southeast Asia’s most significant archaeological sites.

Sambor Prei Kuk represents pre-Angkorian heritage. Preah Vihear Temple stands dramatically along the northern border. Koh Ker, inscribed more recently, adds another royal capital to Cambodia’s heritage map. Each site expands the narrative beyond Angkor alone.

UNESCO collaboration emphasizes sustainable management. Visitor codes of conduct are clearly defined. Dress standards and monument protection rules are strictly promoted. Conservation efforts balance visitor access with long-term preservation.

Battambang’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy diversifies the tourism offer. Culinary tourism complements temple visits. Kampot, Kratie and Ratanakiri are seeking similar recognition. These provinces provide river landscapes, pepper farms, eco-tourism trails and indigenous culture experiences.

The result is a broader tourism canvas. Visitors can combine temples, cuisine, eco-adventures and colonial architecture within one itinerary.

Airline Connectivity Expands Multi-Destination Travel

Cambodia benefits from its central location in mainland Southeast Asia. Travelers can combine Cambodia with Vietnam, Thailand and Laos in a single journey. Airlines make this easy.

Short flights connect Phnom Penh and Siem Reap with Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi in roughly one hour. Kuala Lumpur and Singapore are within two hours. Seoul and Tokyo are longer but direct routes simplify access.

Emirates’ network links Europe and the Middle East to Cambodia through Dubai. Qatar Airways provides similar long-haul access. These routes are critical for US and European travelers. Many long-haul visitors route through Singapore, Doha or Dubai before reaching Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

AirAsia stimulates budget-friendly travel. It attracts younger tourists and regional explorers. This segment often books shorter stays but contributes volume.

Increased frequency improves flexibility. Travelers can plan shorter trips. Business and leisure segments overlap. Conference tourism also benefits from improved connectivity.

Hospitality Industry Prepares for a Heritage-Led Surge

Hotel supply in Cambodia is diverse. Phnom Penh offers luxury riverside properties, boutique hotels and business-oriented accommodation. Siem Reap caters primarily to leisure travelers visiting Angkor. Coastal areas like Sihanoukville and Kep offer beach-focused stays.

Marriott operates internationally branded hotels in Phnom Penh. Hilton has expanded its footprint. Accor manages multiple properties, including upscale and midscale options. Hyatt continues to attract premium travelers. These brands bring loyalty program members. They also increase international marketing reach.

Occupancy levels in Siem Reap have shown improvement but remain below peak pre-pandemic performance. This presents opportunity. If UNESCO-led campaigns drive incremental demand in 2026, occupancy gains could accelerate.

Hospitality growth also creates employment. Tourism supports a significant share of Cambodia’s GDP. In 2024, tourism revenue exceeded three billion US dollars. The sector contributes nearly ten percent of national GDP. Increased arrivals translate into higher spending across hotels, restaurants and transport services.

Travel Tips for 2026 Visitors

Visitors should plan early for 2026. Anniversary programming is likely to draw higher interest during peak seasons. November to February offers cooler temperatures and comfortable sightseeing conditions.

Angkor visitors must follow official guidelines. Modest clothing is required when entering temple towers. Visitors should avoid touching carvings and climbing restricted structures. Purchasing official passes supports conservation funding.

E-visas are available for many nationalities. Travelers should verify eligibility before departure. Passport validity requirements apply.

Regional travelers can consider combining Cambodia with Vietnam or Thailand. Flight times are short. Multi-city itineraries maximize value.

Luxury travelers may prefer Phnom Penh’s international hotels for pre- or post-Angkor stays. Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses and boutique properties in Siem Reap.

Why 2026 Could Be a Transformative Year

The data supports cautious optimism. Cambodia has regained pre-pandemic visitor levels. Air connectivity is strengthening. Major source markets are diversified. Hotel brands are committed.

UNESCO’s 75th anniversary provides narrative power. Heritage tourism resonates globally. Cultural authenticity appeals to travelers seeking meaningful experiences.

Vietnam, China and Thailand ensure steady regional traffic. The USA, France, Japan and South Korea add long-haul strength. Airlines such as Emirates, AirAsia, Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways enhance accessibility. Marriott, Hilton, Accor and Hyatt provide accommodation confidence.

Cambodia’s strategy is not about rapid expansion alone. It is about sustainable growth. It is about balancing preservation with promotion. It is about distributing tourism benefits across provinces.

Angkor remains iconic. But the 2026 vision extends beyond temples. It includes gastronomy, eco-tourism, creative industries and community-based travel.

Cambodia stands at a crossroads. The foundations are visible in the numbers. If managed carefully, 2026 could mark a new chapter in Southeast Asia’s cultural tourism landscape.

Vietnam, China and Thailand are driving Cambodia’s tourism resurgence as the country prepares to mark 75 years of UNESCO membership in 2026, with official figures showing more than 6.7 million international arrivals in 2024 and strong growth continuing through 2025. Backed by expanding airline connectivity and renewed investment from global hospitality brands, Cambodia is positioning its World Heritage and cultural tourism assets at the center of a milestone year that could redefine travel momentum across Southeast Asia.

Travelers seeking heritage, history and authenticity will find compelling reasons to visit. Airlines are ready. Hotels are prepared. The stage is set for a milestone year.