Cambodia is preparing to introduce a new era of cultural tourism with the planned launch of Immersive Angkor, the country’s first technology enabled immersive 3D museum in Siem Reap. Developed by Legendary Entertainment and Culture Group Ltd., the landmark attraction is expected to officially open by late 2026 or early 2027. The project aims to combine cutting edge digital technology with Cambodia’s rich history, creating a unique experience that will attract international visitors while showcasing the Kingdom’s cultural heritage on a global stage.

The announcement came during a meeting between Prime Minister Hun Manet and Legendary Entertainment and Culture Group Chief Executive Officer Anne Zhao on the sidelines of the Prime Minister’s working visit to China for the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, held from July 15 to 17. The discussion highlighted Cambodia’s growing appeal as a destination for international investment in tourism, culture, and innovative entertainment.

What Is Immersive Angkor and Why Is It Being Established?

Immersive Angkor is Cambodia’s first technology enabled immersive 3D museum, designed to bring the country’s rich history, culture, and civilization to life through advanced digital experiences. Instead of viewing traditional exhibits, visitors will be surrounded by large scale visual projections, interactive storytelling, sound, and cutting edge technology that recreates the grandeur of the Angkor era in a fully engaging environment. The museum aims to offer a modern way of exploring Cambodia’s cultural heritage while making history more accessible and memorable for visitors of all ages.

The project is being established to strengthen Cambodia’s tourism industry, attract more international visitors, and showcase the Kingdom’s cultural treasures to a global audience in an innovative way. It also supports the government’s broader strategy of diversifying tourism beyond temple visits by introducing new world class attractions that encourage longer stays and higher visitor spending. By combining heritage with digital innovation, Immersive Angkor is expected to enhance Siem Reap’s appeal as a leading cultural destination while promoting Cambodia’s identity, creativity, and historical legacy to the world.

Cambodia’s First Immersive 3D Museum Nears Completion

Legendary Entertainment and Culture Group revealed that Immersive Angkor will become Cambodia’s first technology enabled immersive 3D museum, offering visitors an interactive journey through the country’s remarkable history and cultural treasures. The project represents the company’s flagship investment in Cambodia and reflects confidence in the country’s expanding tourism sector.

Located in Siem Reap, home to the world famous Angkor Archaeological Park, the museum is designed to deliver an entirely new visitor experience by blending advanced digital technology with storytelling. Rather than simply displaying artifacts, the attraction will immerse guests in Cambodia’s ancient civilization through engaging visual experiences that bring history to life.

Legendary Entertainment Expands Its Presence in Asia

During the meeting, Anne Zhao introduced Legendary Entertainment and Culture Group as one of Asia’s leading integrated tourism and entertainment companies. The firm specializes in developing and managing premium cultural destinations, immersive attractions, and live entertainment experiences across the region.

She explained that the company operates through three major business areas. These include theme parks and live entertainment venues developed in partnership with French theme park operator Puy du Fou, technology enabled immersive 3D museums, and hospitality services covering food, beverages, and tourism experiences. This diversified portfolio has positioned the company as a major player in Asia’s entertainment industry.

More Tourism Investment Planned for Cambodia

Beyond the Immersive Angkor project, Legendary Entertainment announced plans to explore additional investments in Cambodia. The company believes the Kingdom offers strong potential for tourism development and hopes its future projects will attract more international travelers while promoting Cambodia’s unique culture and civilization worldwide.

The investment strategy aligns with Cambodia’s broader vision of expanding tourism beyond traditional sightseeing by creating new attractions that encourage visitors to stay longer and experience more of the country’s cultural offerings.

Government Welcomes Innovative Tourism Projects

Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed Legendary Entertainment’s investment and praised the company’s commitment to promoting Cambodia’s tourism industry and cultural heritage. He emphasized that the Royal Government continues to support projects that strengthen Cambodia’s international tourism appeal.

The Prime Minister noted that alongside promoting Cambodia’s culture and civilization internationally, the government has instructed the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts to develop more tourism activities, including temple experiences and nighttime attractions. These initiatives are intended to enrich visitor experiences while creating new opportunities for local communities and businesses.

Before concluding the meeting, Samdech Thipadei encouraged the company to continue exploring further investment opportunities in Cambodia and to work closely with relevant ministries and institutions to ensure the successful implementation of future projects.

Technology and Culture Create a New Tourism Experience

The arrival of Immersive Angkor reflects a growing trend of combining digital innovation with cultural storytelling. Around the world, immersive museums are transforming the way visitors engage with history, allowing audiences to experience heritage through interactive visuals, sound, and advanced projection technologies.

For Cambodia, this investment represents more than a new tourist attraction. It signals the country’s ambition to diversify its tourism products, embrace innovation, and position itself as a destination where ancient heritage meets modern technology. As global tourism evolves, attractions like Immersive Angkor could become a major draw for younger travelers, families, and technology enthusiasts seeking memorable cultural experiences.

Conclusion

The planned launch of Immersive Angkor marks an important milestone for Cambodia’s tourism industry. By blending advanced technology with the country’s extraordinary cultural heritage, the project has the potential to redefine how visitors experience Cambodia’s history. Supported by both private investment and government commitment, the immersive museum is expected to strengthen Siem Reap’s position as one of Asia’s leading cultural destinations while attracting more international visitors and inspiring future tourism innovation.

Air Cambodia is preparing for a major leap in regional aviation after signing a landmark agreement to purchase 20 C909 regional jets from the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, making it the first foreign national airline to place a bulk order for the Chinese built aircraft. The agreement, signed in Shanghai, is expected to strengthen Cambodia’s air connectivity, expand the national carrier’s regional network, and support the country’s growing aviation industry. The first aircraft are scheduled to arrive during the second half of 2026, opening new opportunities for travel, tourism, and business across Southeast Asia.

The agreement goes beyond aircraft procurement. Alongside the purchase, COMAC and Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation signed a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen cooperation in aviation safety, aircraft certification, technical support, and workforce training. Together, these initiatives represent an important step in Cambodia’s long term strategy to modernize its aviation sector and improve international competitiveness.

Air Cambodia Makes Historic Aircraft Purchase

Air Cambodia’s order for 20 COMAC C909 regional jets marks a milestone for both the airline and the Chinese aircraft manufacturer. It is the first time a foreign national carrier has committed to purchasing the aircraft in such large numbers, highlighting growing confidence in COMAC’s expanding presence in the global aviation market.

Designed to accommodate between 78 and 97 passengers, the C909 is expected to become a key part of Air Cambodia’s regional operations. The first batch of aircraft will be delivered in the second half of 2026, allowing the airline to increase passenger capacity while introducing additional routes across Southeast Asia.

New Fleet Will Strengthen Regional Connectivity

The arrival of the new aircraft is expected to significantly improve Air Cambodia’s ability to connect Cambodia with neighboring countries. By expanding its fleet, the airline will have greater flexibility to serve both existing destinations and emerging regional markets.

The C909 is specifically designed for regional operations and performs efficiently on short and narrow runways as well as in hot climate conditions. These capabilities make the aircraft well suited for many airports across Southeast Asia, where infrastructure and operating environments often vary.

Strategic Aviation Partnership Goes Beyond Aircraft

The cooperation between Cambodia and COMAC extends far beyond the purchase of new aircraft. COMAC and Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen collaboration in aviation safety, airworthiness certification, technical support, and personnel training.

The agreement also focuses on technology transfer, airport development, maintenance services, and the development of skilled aviation professionals. These initiatives are expected to improve Cambodia’s aviation infrastructure while supporting the country’s long term ambition to become a stronger regional aviation hub.

COMAC Plans Long Term Cooperation with Cambodia

COMAC Chairman Shen Bo announced the strategic partnership during a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Hun Manet on the sidelines of the 2026 World AI Conference.

During the meeting, Shen explained that COMAC manufactures commercial aircraft including the C909 and the larger C919 while continuing to expand cooperation with Cambodia through maintenance services and aviation training. According to Shen, the partnership will strengthen technology sharing, human resource development, airport maintenance, and technical cooperation.

He added that the collaboration will improve Air Cambodia’s operational capacity, enhance regional air connectivity, and strengthen Cambodia’s competitiveness within Southeast Asia’s aviation industry.

Government Welcomes Aviation Investment

Prime Minister Hun Manet welcomed COMAC’s expanding investment and praised the company’s growing partnership with Air Cambodia. He expressed appreciation for COMAC’s long term commitment to supporting Cambodia’s civil aviation development.

The Prime Minister also welcomed the strategic cooperation between COMAC, the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, and Air Cambodia, particularly in the areas of professional training and human resource development. He noted that these efforts will contribute to the modernization of Cambodia’s aviation industry while strengthening its international competitiveness.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating close cooperation between COMAC and relevant Cambodian ministries to ensure the successful implementation of future aviation projects.

COMAC Continues Expanding Its Global Presence

Founded in 2008, COMAC has become one of China’s leading commercial aircraft manufacturers. The company currently produces the C909 regional jet, formerly known as the ARJ21, which serves regional routes with seating capacity for 78 to 90 passengers.

Its product lineup also includes the C919 narrow body aircraft, capable of carrying between 158 and 192 passengers. Looking ahead, COMAC is developing the C929, a wide body long haul aircraft designed to accommodate between 282 and 440 passengers with a flight range of up to 12,000 kilometers. The aircraft is expected to make its first flight in 2030, reflecting the company’s ambition to compete in the global commercial aviation market.

Conclusion

Air Cambodia’s decision to purchase 20 COMAC C909 aircraft represents far more than a fleet expansion. It signals Cambodia’s growing confidence in regional aviation, stronger cooperation with international partners, and a commitment to modernizing its civil aviation industry. Combined with investments in technology, training, and infrastructure, the agreement positions Cambodia to improve regional connectivity, support tourism and business growth, and strengthen its role in Southeast Asia’s aviation landscape.

As Cambodia enters the peak of the rainy season, authorities at the Angkor Archaeological Park are stepping up safety measures to protect both local residents and international visitors. The APSARA National Authority has launched a series of preventive actions across the Angkor World Heritage Site, including tree maintenance and the installation of additional lightning protection systems. The initiative aims to reduce the risks associated with heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds while ensuring tourists can continue exploring Cambodia’s most iconic heritage destination safely.

The enhanced safety campaign reflects the authority’s commitment to preserving a safe and enjoyable travel experience throughout the green season. By improving infrastructure and minimizing weather related hazards, APSARA hopes visitors will continue to enjoy Angkor Wat and surrounding temples with confidence despite the challenges brought by Cambodia’s tropical climate.

APSARA Introduces Enhanced Rainy Season Safety Measures

The APSARA National Authority has officially introduced a range of safety protocols designed to reduce weather related risks during the rainy season. The measures focus on protecting tourists, local communities, and everyone travelling throughout the Angkor World Heritage Site.

Speaking in an interview, APSARA National Authority spokesman Yit Chandaroat explained that the agency is actively addressing seasonal hazards before they become serious threats.

“We are doing this to prevent risks that may arise, as well as incidents that may cause difficulties for citizens and the public, as well as national and international tourists who travel through or visit the Angkor World Heritage site,” Chandaroat said.

Rainy Weather Brings Greater Risks

Cambodia’s tropical climate often brings heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning strikes, and powerful winds during the monsoon season. These natural conditions increase the likelihood of falling branches, slippery walkways, and other hazards around ancient temple structures.

Chandaroat emphasized that visitors should remain alert while participating in outdoor activities.

“Because we are in the rainy season, it can cause accidents due to factors such as rain, thunder, lightning and strong winds,” he said.

Authorities are encouraging both domestic and international visitors to prepare ahead of their trips and remain cautious throughout their visit.

Tree Pruning and Lightning Protection Expanded

One of the key safety measures currently underway involves pruning trees that could become dangerous during severe weather. Removing weak or unstable branches helps reduce the risk of trees falling during storms and protects visitors moving around the archaeological park.

APSARA has also expanded its lightning protection network across several major temple sites.

“Within the Angkor World Heritage Site, we have now installed lightning protection at three locations within the Angkor Wat temple complex and two locations at the Bayon temple,” Chandaroat said.

He added that additional lightning protection systems are currently being installed in front of Angkor Wat, at the Elephant Terrace, and across several other temple grounds.

“Meanwhile, we are continuously installing more in the area in front of Angkor Wat, the Elephant Terrace, and other temple grounds. We hope to complete this project by the end of this year.”

These improvements are expected to significantly enhance visitor safety during periods of severe weather.

Ensuring Safe and Memorable Visits

The APSARA National Authority says the ongoing safety improvements are intended to provide visitors with peace of mind while exploring Cambodia’s most treasured cultural landmark.

“This announcement is to prevent risks to the public and tourists, so that they can travel safely and have a smooth experience and pleasant memories during this green season,” Chandaroat added.

The agency continues to advise everyone visiting Angkor during the rainy months to stay informed about weather conditions and take extra precautions.

“All national and international tourists, as well as citizens, should exercise extreme caution when travelling or engaging in recreational activities and be prepared in advance.”

Conclusion

The APSARA National Authority is taking proactive steps to make Angkor Wat safer during Cambodia’s rainy season. Through tree pruning, expanded lightning protection, and public safety awareness, the agency is working to minimize weather related risks while preserving a positive visitor experience. As one of the world’s most celebrated heritage sites, Angkor Wat continues to welcome travelers with stronger safety measures that help ensure every journey remains both memorable and secure.

Yes. Thousands of travelers from around the world purchase their official Angkor Pass online before arriving in Siem Reap. Buying online is safe, convenient, and helps you avoid waiting in line at the ticket office.

The only official website for purchasing Angkor Wat tickets is the Angkor Enterprise website:

Official Website: https://www.angkorenterprise.gov.kh/en

Official Online Ticket Portal: https://ticket.angkorenterprise.gov.kh/

According to Angkor Enterprise, visitors can buy their tickets online in just a few minutes. After payment, your e-ticket is sent directly to your email, and you can simply present the digital ticket on your smartphone when entering the Angkor Archaeological Park. There is no need to print the ticket unless you prefer a paper copy.

Why Buy Your Angkor Wat Ticket Online?

Purchasing your ticket online offers several advantages:

• Save time by skipping ticket queues.
• Buy your ticket before arriving in Cambodia.
• Receive your e-ticket instantly by email.
• Use your phone to enter the park.
• Secure payment through the official government-operated system.
• Reduce the risk of purchasing invalid or fake tickets.

Angkor Enterprise has also warned travelers to purchase tickets only through its official website, as fraudulent websites have been reported selling fake Angkor Passes.

How to Buy an Angkor Pass Online

The online process is straightforward:

1. Visit the official ticket website.
2. Choose a 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day Angkor Pass.
3. Select your visit date.
4. Enter your nationality and ticket quantity.
5. Complete payment using an accepted payment method.
6. Receive your e-ticket by email.
7. Show the digital ticket at the entrance.

For 3-day and 7-day passes, your photo will be captured during the online application process and printed on your e-ticket.

Download the Official Angkor Pass Mobile App

If you prefer using your smartphone, Angkor Enterprise also provides the official Angkor Pass mobile application, allowing visitors to purchase tickets anytime and anywhere.

The app is available through the official website:

https://ticket.angkorenterprise.gov.kh

Recommended Payment Option for International Tourists

For an even smoother travel experience in Cambodia, international visitors should consider using the Bakong Tourists mobile app.

Bakong Tourists allows foreign visitors to make secure cashless payments by scanning KHQR codes at thousands of restaurants, hotels, shops, attractions, and local businesses across Cambodia. It is an excellent companion for your Angkor trip, especially if you prefer not to carry large amounts of cash.

You can download Bakong Tourists here:

Apple App Store
https://apps.apple.com/

Google Play
https://play.google.com/store

Final Recommendation

If you’re planning to visit Angkor Wat, buying your ticket online through the official Angkor Enterprise website is the safest and most convenient option. Pair it with the Bakong Tourists app for fast and easy digital payments throughout your stay in Cambodia.

Whether you’re traveling independently or with a tour group, purchasing your Angkor Pass online lets you spend less time waiting and more time exploring one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures.

Cambodia and the United Arab Emirates are taking another important step toward closer tourism cooperation by exploring a mutual tourist visa exemption and expanding direct air connections between the two countries. The discussions took place in Phnom Penh on July 7, 2026, during a meeting between Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism Huot Hak and UAE Ambassador Obaid Saeed Obaid Bintaresh Aldhaheri. The initiative aims to make travel easier, attract more visitors, and strengthen economic ties through tourism, aviation, trade, and investment.

The latest talks build on tourism cooperation launched in May 2025 and reflect both countries’ commitment to creating more convenient travel opportunities. Officials believe improved connectivity and simpler travel procedures will encourage greater visitor exchanges while helping Cambodia diversify its international tourism markets and strengthen its long term tourism strategy.

Visa Free Travel Proposal Gains Momentum

One of the key topics discussed during the meeting was the possibility of introducing a mutual tourist visa exemption between Cambodia and the UAE. Both sides reviewed the proposal as part of ongoing efforts to make travel more accessible and encourage stronger people to people connections.

If implemented, the visa exemption would make it easier for tourists from both countries to travel without lengthy visa procedures. The proposal is expected to boost tourism while creating new opportunities for business travelers, investors, and cultural exchanges.

Direct Flights Continue to Strengthen Connectivity

Officials also highlighted the growing importance of direct air services between Abu Dhabi and Phnom Penh. The launch of Etihad Airways’ direct flights in late 2025 has significantly improved Cambodia’s accessibility for travelers from the Middle East and other international markets.

Ambassador Obaid Saeed welcomed the increasing number of passengers using the direct route, while Minister Huot Hak expressed appreciation for the UAE’s continued support. The improved air connectivity has made travel more convenient and strengthened Cambodia’s position as an emerging destination for visitors from the Gulf region.

Tourism Cooperation Expands Beyond Visitor Numbers

The meeting also explored broader opportunities for cooperation beyond tourism. Both countries agreed that stronger partnerships in aviation, trade, and investment could further enhance bilateral relations while supporting sustainable economic development.

The discussions took place during the celebration of the 32nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and the UAE, highlighting the growing partnership that continues to expand across multiple sectors.

Middle East Becomes a Growing Tourism Market

Cambodia welcomed approximately 5.6 million international visitors in 2025, including nearly 3,500 tourists from the Middle East. During the first five months of 2026, the Kingdom received 1.6 million international arrivals, with more than 1,200 visitors coming from the region despite ongoing geopolitical challenges.

These figures demonstrate the Middle East’s growing importance as an emerging tourism market for Cambodia. As travel demand continues to recover, the government sees significant opportunities to attract more high value visitors from the region.

Cambodia Focuses on Diversifying Tourism Markets

According to the Ministry of Tourism, expanding direct flights, improving travel facilitation, and strengthening bilateral cooperation are key priorities for attracting more visitors from the Middle East. These initiatives form part of Cambodia’s broader strategy to diversify its tourism markets and reduce dependence on traditional visitor sources.

By building stronger partnerships with countries such as the UAE, Cambodia hopes to create a more resilient tourism industry while supporting sustainable long term growth.

Conclusion

Cambodia and the UAE are deepening their partnership through plans to improve travel convenience and strengthen tourism cooperation. The proposed visa free travel arrangement, together with expanding direct air connectivity, reflects both countries’ shared vision of increasing visitor exchanges and creating new economic opportunities. As Cambodia continues to diversify its tourism markets, stronger ties with the UAE could play an important role in attracting more international visitors and supporting the Kingdom’s sustainable tourism growth.