Phu Quoc a new iconic event destination of Asia

Phu Quoc is experiencing a meteoric rise, both in visitor numbers and the rapid development of its infrastructure, surpassing all expectations.

The island is becoming one of the most sought-after destinations in the region, consistently chosen to host world-class events.

Vietnam’s New Year celebration hotspot

As the clock struck 11:59 p.m. on December 31, 2024, more than 15,000 visitors, both local and international, gathered at Sunset Town in Phu Quoc. All eyes were on the Kiss of the Sea stage as they counted down to a breathtaking fireworks display to ring in the New Year.

The sight of fireworks lighting up the sky above the Kiss of the Sea stage, with the iconic Kiss Bridge in the background, has become a signature image of Phu Quoc. Year-round, the island welcomes guests with festive energy and grandeur.

“Every year, my family celebrates New Year’s Eve in Sydney with its famous fireworks. This year, we decided to try something new and came to Phu Quoc. I was blown away by the spectacular fireworks - it’s a scene I’ve never experienced anywhere else,” said Tony, an Australian tourist.

Beyond being a standout destination for New Year celebrations, Phu Quoc has increasingly been chosen to host major international events. Its appeal lies in a rare combination of factors: open visa policies, convenient flight connections, world-class tourism infrastructure, and unparalleled natural beauty.

In 2019, Phu Quoc made headlines when Indian billionaire couple Rushang Shah and Kaabia Grewal picked the island for one of the world’s most anticipated weddings. Fast forward to 2024, the scale and frequency of international events have grown significantly.

In November 2024, Phu Quoc welcomed 500 Coca-Cola guests for the brand’s Asia-Pacific regional gathering. The gala, held at the Kiss of the Sea stage, left attendees in awe with the world’s largest seawater performance, state-of-the-art fire and laser displays, and a show featuring 60 international artists. Coca-Cola representatives called it “the most stunning stage in Vietnam” and expressed their delight.

In the same year, the island hosted an extravagant seven-day Indian billionaire wedding with 350 high-profile guests. The family not only reserved the entire JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay resort but also used Sunset Town for traditional Indian wedding rituals. The highlight? A spectacular ceremony on the Kiss of the Sea stage, complete with two dazzling fireworks displays that left guests mesmerized and created a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

World-class infrastructure driving success

Phu Quoc’s rapid rise as a prime event destination can be attributed to its state-of-the-art infrastructure, which continues to evolve at an extraordinary pace.

Weichun Liu, CEO of global travel platform KKday, was astounded by the island’s transformation: “I first visited Phu Quoc in 2022 and was impressed by the cable car project. On my return, I saw not only infrastructure and hotels but also vibrant performances, night markets, and a fully developed ecosystem. It’s incredible.”

Australia’s micenet, a leading platform for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and Eexhibitions) tourism, highlighted Phu Quoc as a rising star, attracting international attention with its diverse experiences and world-class facilities.

Currently, the island has 311 projects in development, with a total investment of VND428 trillion ($16.92 billion), many of which are mega resorts and entertainment complexes that rival regional and global competitors.

In Southern Phu Quoc, areas like Sunset Town and Kem Beach are particularly well-suited for large-scale events. The Kiss of the Sea outdoor stage can accommodate up to 5,000 guests and features cutting-edge lighting, sound, and fireworks technology, along with a groundbreaking design unmatched anywhere in the world.

For indoor events, venues like the Sun Signature Gallery and Sun Tropical Ballroom can host up to 1,000 attendees. Post-event receptions held on Kem Beach - a beach consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful - add an unforgettable touch.

Phu Quoc is also a hotspot for international hotel brands such as Marriott, Accor, Hilton, and IHG. Recently, the island expanded its portfolio of prestigious brands with the introduction of Rixos by Sun Group, marking the brand’s debut in Southeast Asia through the Rixos Phu Quoc resort.

In December 2024, Sun Group began construction on the Aspira Tower at Hon Thom. Slated for completion in 2027, this luxury resort-entertainment-commercial complex, featuring The Luxury Collection Hon Thom hotel, is expected to become a new icon, attracting millions of visitors annually to Hon Thom, Phu Quoc.

With its proven potential and bold developments on the horizon, Phu Quoc is cementing its status as a global event destination. By the end of next year, the island is expected to complete an international cruise port with a capacity of 3,000-4,000 passengers per trip.

Plans to upgrade and expand Phu Quoc International Airport are also underway, positioning the island to welcome millions of international visitors annually.