Ho Chi Minh City: A Metropolis of Excellence for Business Tourism
At the heart of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City asserts itself as a major destination for business tourism in Southeast Asia. This dynamic metropolis, harmoniously blending tradition and modernity, provides an exceptional setting for large-scale international professional events.
Internationally Recognized Excellence
The year 2024 marks a decisive turning point in the international recognition of Ho Chi Minh City. At the prestigious World MICE Awards, the metropolis shone by winning three major distinctions: Best MICE Destination in Asia - a title it has held for the fifth consecutive year, Best Incentive Destination in Asia, and Best Professional Trade Show in Asia for the ITE HCMC event. These awards attest to the excellence of the infrastructure and services dedicated to business tourism in the city.
The growth in tourism confirms this success, with over 3.4 million international visitors welcomed during the first eight months of 2024, representing a 21% increase compared to the previous year. Domestic tourism is also on the rise, with 23 million registered visitors, demonstrating the growing appeal of the metropolis.
Top-notch Infrastructure
Ho Chi Minh City has significant assets to host large-scale professional events. Its high-end hotel sector boasts more than 25 five-star establishments, offering services up to international standards. The Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center (SECC), with its 40,000 m² of modular spaces, can host the largest events under optimal conditions. International connectivity is ensured by Tan Son Nhat Airport, the country's largest, connecting the city to over 50 destinations worldwide.
Ho Chi Minh city, where tradition meets modernity - Photo : Mr Linh's Adventures team
A Modernizing Transport Network
Ho Chi Minh City's first metro line, connecting Ben Thanh to Suoi Tien (line 1), represents a major advancement in urban transport modernization. This flagship project, spanning 19.7 kilometers, including 2.6 kilometers underground, revolutionizes urban mobility. It efficiently connects the city center to major business areas, significantly facilitating the movement of event participants. Five other lines are either planned or under construction, promising a modern and efficient transport network comparable to those of major Asian metropolises.
A Dynamic Economic and Technological Center
The city has established itself as the economic powerhouse of Vietnam. It is home to the national stock exchange and the Saigon high-tech park, attracting numerous multinational corporations and innovative startups. The presence of a special economic zone promotes foreign investments, while competitive operational costs compared to other metropolises like Singapore or Bangkok enhance its attractiveness.
Emblematic Landmark 81 - Photo : Mr Linh's Adventures team
Rich Cultural Heritage
The harmonious blend of French colonial architectural heritage with urban modernity creates a unique atmosphere. Iconic sites such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office - with its glass canopy and metal structure designed by Gustave Eiffel - or the Reunification Palace, stand alongside ultra-modern skyscrapers like the Bitexco Financial Tower and Landmark 81. This striking contrast offers business visitors an enriching cultural backdrop for their professional events.
An Ambitious Tourism Strategy
The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism has made the MICE sector a strategic priority, alongside shopping, ecotourism, and cultural tourism. Particular emphasis is placed on developing "bleisure" (business + leisure), harmoniously combining business and leisure to enhance the experience of professional visitors.
Time capsule : the Reunification Palace - Photo : Mr Linh's Adventures team
Vision 2030: Asserting Leadership
By 2030, Ho Chi Minh City aims to strengthen its position as a leader in MICE tourism in Asia. This vision is based on a comprehensive strategy including enhancing its brand image, diversifying its tourism offerings, and adopting sustainable practices aligned with global trends. Continuous investments in infrastructure and services promise to make Ho Chi Minh City an essential destination for international professional events.
Annex: Strategic Business Districts
District 1 - The Financial Hub
The historic and financial center of Ho Chi Minh City houses the headquarters of major financial institutions, international banks, and leading companies. The Nguyen Hue - Le Loi axis, with its prestigious office buildings, embodies the city's economic power. Notable establishments include:
- - Bitexco Financial Tower
- - Saigon Centre
- - Offices of the Vietnam Stock Exchange
- - Major international hotels
Thu Thiem - Asia's New Manhattan
This new urban area in District 2, currently under development, is set to become the new financial and commercial center of the city. The project includes:
- - An international convention center
- - Ultra-modern office towers
- - High-end residential spaces
- - Cultural and entertainment center
District 2 - Thu Thiem - Photo : Mr Linh's Adventures team
Phu My Hung - The International District
Located in District 7, this modern district hosts:
- - Numerous international companies
- - International schools
- - Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC)
- - A significant expatriate community
Saigon Hi-Tech Park
Located in District 9, this technological hub accommodates:
- - R&D centers
- - High-tech companies
- - Startup incubators
- - Training institutes
The Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) - Photo : Internet
District 4 - Transforming Port Zone
Formerly a port area undergoing transformation, it is gradually becoming a new business hub with:
- - Mixed real estate projects
- - Modern office spaces
- - Breathtaking views of the Saigon River
- - Direct connection to the city center
For MICE event organizers, these different districts offer a variety of location options, each with unique characteristics and specific advantages. The diversity of available spaces allows for adapting the choice of venue to the objectives and nature of each event, whether it be international conferences, corporate seminars, or incentive programs.