Content Writer: Janice Chew • Tuesday, 25/12/2025 - 18:32:54 - PM
Vietnam has officially exceeded its previous all-time record for international tourist arrivals, marking a major milestone for the country’s post-pandemic tourism rebound. Multiple independent sources, including VNExpress, Tuoi Tre News, and data from the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT), confirm that visitor numbers in 2025 have already surpassed the 2019 peak—previously considered the benchmark year before global travel disruptions.
Industry analysts attribute this surge to Vietnam’s aggressive tourism strategy over the past two years. Policies such as expanded visa exemptions, longer e-visa durations, and simplified entry procedures have significantly boosted the country’s accessibility. Vietnam has been one of Asia’s fastest-growing destinations in 2024–2025, driven by strong demand from South Korea, China, and the US, alongside rapidly rising numbers from Europe. Airlines have also increased capacity across Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, making travel flows more seamless than before.
At the regional level, destinations like Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc are benefiting disproportionately from the visitor boom. Local tourism boards cited by Thanh Nien report hotel occupancy rates approaching pre-pandemic highs, while coastal resort operators note longer average stays and higher per-guest spending. The rise of MICE tourism, fueled by new convention centres and corporate travel returning strongly, is also helping Vietnam diversify beyond leisure travellers.
Looking ahead, Vietnam’s tourism authorities expect total 2025 arrivals to finish well above earlier forecasts. They are now shifting focus toward sustainability and infrastructure enhancements to support continued growth—airport upgrades, highway expansions, and destination management initiatives included. Analysts agree that surpassing the pre-COVID record is not only symbolic but also signals Vietnam’s emergence as a top-tier Asian travel hub, increasingly competitive with Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore in attracting global travellers.
