The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) will launch a new offer to attract more international tourists, with foreign visitors to be offered free direct bus or ferry tickets from 1 February.
The offer, in partnership with Macau-Hong Kong Airport Direct, Turbo Jet and Cotai Water Jet, will last for seven months for bus tickets until 31 August 2024 and six months for ferry tickets until 31 June 2024, with the MGTO noting that it is continually looking to expand international source markets.
In order to access the free bus ticket, foreign travelers arriving at Hong Kong International Airport can redeem their ticket with a valid foreign travel document and boarding pass in the restricted area, then take a direct bus to Macau via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge at the SkyPier Interchange Building.
To access a ferry ticket, foreign visitors can book in advance by presenting their valid foreign travel documents and boarding pass stubs, e-tickets or transportation tickets for arrivals in Hong Kong within seven days of travel.
The offer is not available for those from mainland China, Hong Kong or Taiwan.
According to MGTO, it is hoped that the new promotional scheme will provide international visitors with preferential and convenient transportation services while at the same time increasing their desire to choose Macau as a tourist destination.
The agency said it has also cooperated with 12 international cruise lines to sell Macau sightseeing products on board cruise ships arriving in Hong Kong. Visitors can enquire and purchase Macau sightseeing products through the respective cruise lines’ websites, at the tour desk on board before departure, on board the cruise ship or upon arrival at the port of Hong Kong.
Since Macau dropped most remaining border restrictions in January 2023, the MGTO has regarded attracting more international tourists as its top priority. In its 2024 Policy Address, the government said it has set aside a budget of MOP$235 million (US$29 million) to promote international visitors.
MGTO director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes has previously stated a goal of attracting 3 million international visitors in 2024.
