Macao is witnessing a significant increase in tourist arrivals, even as casino revenues at many of the region's top integrated resorts (IRs) are projected to slow down.
According to figures from the Macau Public Security Police, the Qingmao Immigration Center has processed over 20 million customs clearances since the start of this year. For comparison, reaching the same milestone took more than two weeks longer during the previous year, as reported by the Macau-based Japanese media outlet, Macau Shimbun.
The Qingmao Checkpoint, a vital land crossing that connects Macao with Mainland China, operates around the clock and employs facial recognition software to handle approximately 200,000 arrivals daily. This checkpoint first opened in 2021 and is currently operating at more than 50% capacity, with average daily arrivals up over 7% compared to July 2025.
This uptick follows a record-breaking 2025, in which Macao received more than 19.2 million tourist arrivals, an increase of 14.9% year-on-year.
In response to the rising visitor numbers, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has considered offering free direct transfers for international tourists traveling from the nearby city of Guangzhou. This decision comes amid a substantial increase in international tourism, including a remarkable 60% rise in visitors from Thailand. Additionally, travel rates to Mainland China have surged, with year-on-year increases of nearly 11%.
Guangzhou Baiyun Airport serves as the primary entry point for air travelers from the Mainland and is seeing impressive growth, reporting a 34% year-on-year rise in cross-border passengers. Notably, there has been an 85% increase in passengers from Central Asia and Russia this month.
Despite the rise in tourist traffic, casino revenues remain sluggish. In fact, gross gaming revenue fell by over 12.1% year-on-year last month, reaching its lowest point in 15 months. Analysts have pointed to the World Cup as a contributing factor, suggesting that revenues might recover once the tournament concludes. The onset of typhoon season has further complicated travel to and from Macao, with Typhoon Bavi prompting the evacuation of about two million residents.
Prior to these events, there was already a drop in VIP market figures, indicating a potential slowdown — a warning that US analysts highlighted last year due to increased royalty payment fees to operators’ parent companies. Moreover, financial experts from South Korea have suggested that Macao casinos might continue to face challenges throughout the second half of 2026.
Amid the declines in casino earnings, many integrated resorts are pivoting towards alternative revenue streams. The Galaxy Macau recently unveiled a new children's splash park and water play area, catering to young families. Meanwhile, the Grand Lisboa Palace is enhancing its culinary offerings, recently earning two additional Michelin stars for its restaurants. This resort is also home to the prestigious Michelin three-star restaurant, Robuchon au Dôme.
