Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism (MOT) reported that 3.54 million tourists made their way to the country for the last days of 2024.
While the bulk of this figure was made up of citizens, the country also welcomed 50,000 foreign travellers for the New Year’s Eve revels.
The Provincial Department of Tourism’s Tourism Statistics Report shows that the total for 30th December was made up of 216,331 local tourists and 18,249 foreigners.
On New Year’s Eve, 31st December, the composite total surged with locals numbering around 3,271,734 and 29,011 foreigners.
Where did tourists welcome the new year?
The bulk of New Year’s Eve tourists were scattered through five key destinations: Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kampot.
The capital Phnom Penh attracted 1,555,059 local tourists for the last two days of 2024, proof of its popularity with the domestic market, as well as 18,420 foreigners.
According to Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA), the increase in tourists during the New Year celebration in Phnom Penh may be traced to the Celebrating Cambodia event, a cultural initiative highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Sivlin said: “The event, organised by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) and the Phnom Penh Capital Hall (PPCH), played a key role in drawing both local and international visitors, further enhancing the city’s appeal as a vibrant destination during the holiday season.”
At the same time, CATA members have actively supported the programme from the outset, particularly in marketing.
According to Sivlin: “We’ve integrated the event with the CATA travel package, raising awareness among international tourists planning to visit Cambodia in advance.”
