Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is set to become home to the city’s largest marina as part of the ambitious development of its Airport City. This multi-faceted project, spearheaded by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), aims to transform the area into a thriving commercial and leisure hub, blending popular culture, art, entertainment, and tourism.
A Vision for Growth
Scheduled for completion between 2026 and 2031, the new marina will feature approximately 600 berths and a range of ancillary facilities, including a fresh food market and water-based recreation options. This venture is expected to position Airport City as a premier yacht tourism destination in Asia, particularly within the Greater Bay Area.
Fred Lam, Chairman of AAHK, emphasized the transformative potential of the project:
“HKIA is a leading international aviation hub in Asia. With the three-runway system fully operating by the end of this year, we are in a position to press full steam ahead with innovative projects in different market segments.”
The marina’s strategic location adjacent to the airport island will leverage Hong Kong’s coastal resources, creating a vibrant waterfront destination that enhances high-end commercial tourism and leisure activities.
A Landmark in the Making
The Airport City blueprint, unveiled in 2019, combines HKIA’s core aviation functions with a host of innovative developments. Key features include:
- Marina and Yacht Facilities: A state-of-the-art 600-berth marina designed to attract luxury yacht tourism.
- Cultural and Recreational Spaces: Diverse indoor and outdoor facilities along the coastlines of the airport island and Hong Kong Port Island.
- Art and Entertainment Ecosystem: Initiatives supporting art trading and cultural events.
- AsiaWorld-Expo Phase Two: Expanded facilities for large-scale exhibitions and events.
- Fresh Food Market: A hub offering premium products sourced globally.
- Sportainment Complex: A facility combining sports and entertainment to engage visitors.
Public spaces will connect the various elements, hosting festive celebrations and cultural events to attract both locals and international visitors.
Economic Impacts and Regional Synergy
This development aligns with Hong Kong’s broader goal of strengthening its economy and integrating with the Greater Bay Area. By harnessing the unique advantages of its location, Airport City aims to draw premium visitors from across the region and beyond, injecting fresh momentum into the local tourism and leisure sectors.
Lam concluded:
“The expansion of the development blueprint will focus on leveraging Hong Kong’s unique advantages and creating synergy among various projects to transform the Airport City into a new landmark of Asia. It will be a distinct tourist hotspot, injecting impetus into the economic growth of Hong Kong and the region.”
As the marina and surrounding projects take shape, Airport City is poised to redefine Hong Kong’s position as a global hub for luxury tourism, commerce, and culture.
Source Hong Kong Airport
