Why Hong Kong Is Emerging As India's Preferred MICE Destination

When it comes to hosting world-class business events with a touch of leisure, Hong Kong is making waves. With its cutting-edge infrastructure, strategic location, and a growing focus on cruise tourism, the city is positioning itself as Asia's premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) destination. For Indian corporates seeking fresh experiences beyond boardrooms, Hong Kong offers the perfect blend of business efficiency and memorable team bonding. With strong recovery in MICE arrivals, new cruise offerings, and innovative support programmes, Hong Kong is now one of the most compelling destinations for incentive travel from India, and there are many reasons why. 

A Strong Comeback in MICE Tourism

Hong Kong has seen an impressive recovery in the MICE sector. In 2024, the city welcomed 1.42 million overnight MICE visitors, a 10% jump from the previous year, bringing arrivals to 80% of pre-2018 levels. More importantly, MICE visitors spend on average 20-30% more than leisure tourists and extend their stay to almost four nights, making them a high-value segment for the destination.

For India, this trend is particularly promising. Visitor numbers from India rose by 155% in 2024, with approximately 416,000 arrivals. The Indian market now stands out as one of Hong Kong's fastest-growing MICE segments, thanks to its strong potential in incentive travel and corporate group tours.

"India is one of our most important focus markets," says Marilyn Tham, General Manager - MICE, Cruise & Mega Events at the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB). "We have seen tremendous growth from India in the past year, and we're working closely with corporates and planners to curate unique experiences that go beyond the conventional."

Marilyn Tham, General Manager - MICE, Cruise & Mega Events at the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)

Why Hong Kong Appeals to Indian Corporates

For Indian corporates, Hong Kong's appeal lies in its combination of world-class infrastructure, connectivity, and experiences.

• Location & Connectivity: Just five hours from major Indian cities, Hong Kong is a gateway to Mainland China and wider Asia. Direct flights and the new Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge strengthen its "super connector" status.
• Venues: The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and AsiaWorld-Expo already rank among Asia's top venues, with new additions like the Kai Tak Sports Park and West Kowloon Cultural District expanding options for large-scale events.
• Experiences Beyond Meetings: Through the Hong Kong Incentive Playbook, corporates can plan activities ranging from art walks and wellness workshops to culinary experiences and vibrant nightlife. This balance of business and leisure is critical for incentive travel.
• Support for Organisers: HKTB offers comprehensive subsidies and funding schemes, making it easier for Indian companies to host events of varying scales. Even groups as small as 20 participants can access exclusive hospitality benefits under the "Hong Kong Rewards!" programme.

Kai Tak Sports Park

Cruise + MICE: The New Proposition

One of the most exciting developments in Hong Kong's MICE landscape is the integration of cruise experiences. The Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, designed by Foster + Partners, is capable of hosting the world's largest cruise ships. Its versatile spaces, rooftop garden with harbour views, and unique event set-ups-ranging from banquets to product launches-make it a dream venue for corporates.

Cruise lines are also betting big on the city. Royal Caribbean has announced expanded sailings for 2025, and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will bring its luxury vessel Luminara in 2026. But the biggest buzz is around Star Cruises' return to Hong Kong.

Spotlight: Star Cruises' New MICE Experience

Star Cruises' 77,000-ton Star Voyager will homeport in Hong Kong starting June 2025, offering a blend of leisure and business for Indian corporates. According to reports, the ship will feature dedicated event spaces, curated dining, and high-seas entertainment designed for incentive groups. This development is especially significant for Indian travellers, as cruises are becoming a popular option for incentive programmes that combine luxury, networking, and recreation.

For companies, it's a chance to elevate team-building-imagine hosting a leadership retreat on deck, followed by gala dinners overlooking the South China Sea. With such offerings, cruises are no longer just leisure holidays; they are evolving into serious platforms for MICE innovation.

Star Voyager, Hong Kong

Support and Incentives from HKTB

HKTB is leaving no stone unturned in making Hong Kong competitive. From bidding funds for large-scale events to special subsidies for small and medium-sized corporate groups, the board is actively supporting event organisers, DMCs, and hotels. Their Hong Kong Rewards! Programme sweetens the deal further by offering exclusive privileges for groups as small as 20 people.

For Indian corporates, this translates into cost efficiencies, premium experiences, and the assurance of smooth execution. With regular roadshows in India and participation at trade shows like SATTE, HKTB is also building stronger partnerships with Indian planners.

Hong Kong MICE Trips Tailored for Indian Corporates

Hong Kong has made conscious efforts to adapt to the needs of Indian companies:

• Food & Culture: From authentic Indian cuisine at leading hotels to vegetarian-friendly options at banquets, Hong Kong caters to diverse dietary needs.
• Muslim-Friendly Destination: HKTB is actively promoting halal-certified restaurants and prayer facilities to support corporate groups with mixed delegations.
• Entertainment Appeal: Groups can plan extensions to Disneyland's World of Frozen, Ocean Park, or cultural icons like the West Kowloon Cultural District, making Hong Kong a destination that employees look forward to.

Hong Kong Disneyland's World of Frozen

Blending Business with Hong Kong's Spirit

Beyond meetings and cruises, Hong Kong offers a year-round calendar of festivals and mega events-Art Basel, Clockenflap, the Hong Kong Sevens, and the Wine & Dine Festival, to name a few. For Indian groups, this provides the added advantage of experiencing the city's vibrant energy while on a business trip.

As the global MICE industry evolves, Hong Kong's strategy of combining world-class infrastructure, cultural diversity, and cruise innovation is paying off. For Indian corporates, it's not just a destination but an opportunity to rethink how incentive travel and conferences can inspire teams.

Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival

In Tham's words: "Hong Kong is more than a meeting place. It's where business goals are achieved, and unforgettable memories are created. That's the experience we want Indian corporates to take back with them."