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.

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The Ministry of Tourism is preparing a new development plan to transform Preah Cheyvarman Norodom National Park, better known as Phnom Kulen, into one of Cambodia’s leading nature tourism destinations over the next three years. The initiative follows an official site inspection and a high level consultation meeting chaired by Tourism Minister Huot Hak in Siem Reap province on July 3. The draft strategy is designed to strengthen tourism between 2026 and 2028 while supporting sustainable growth, attracting more visitors, and creating new economic opportunities for local communities.

The proposal reflects the government’s broader vision of expanding Cambodia’s tourism offerings beyond the famous Angkor Archaeological Park. By improving Phnom Kulen’s appeal and visitor experience, officials hope to encourage both domestic and international tourists to stay longer in Siem Reap, explore more destinations, and contribute to inclusive economic development. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the plan also supports Cambodia’s long term tourism recovery following recent global challenges.

Government Maps Out a New Tourism Strategy for Phnom Kulen

The draft tourism development plan was discussed during a consultative meeting attended by around 130 participants, including senior government officials, provincial authorities, development partners, and representatives from civil society organisations. The gathering focused on identifying practical measures that will guide tourism development in Phnom Kulen from 2026 through 2028.

The consultation followed an on site inspection of the national park, allowing officials to assess current conditions and identify opportunities for improvement. The strategy aims to balance tourism growth with environmental conservation while ensuring that local communities benefit from increased visitor arrivals and related economic activities.

Tourism Recovery Remains a National Priority

During the meeting, Tourism Minister Huot Hak reaffirmed that the Royal Government continues to place tourism at the heart of Cambodia’s economic recovery strategy. He highlighted the importance of restoring visitor confidence and strengthening Siem Reap’s position as one of the country’s premier travel destinations.

The minister pointed to several major government initiatives already underway, including the Visit Siem Reap Campaign and the Siem Reap Tourism Development Master Plan 2021 to 2035. These programmes are intended to revitalise the province’s tourism sector while creating a more diverse and resilient tourism economy capable of attracting visitors throughout the year.

Expanding Attractions Beyond Angkor

A key objective of the new plan is to encourage travelers to discover more of Siem Reap beyond the world renowned Angkor Archaeological Park. Officials believe that expanding the range of attractions available to visitors will encourage longer stays, increase tourism spending, and spread economic benefits across surrounding communities.

Tourism diversification is also expected to reduce pressure on heavily visited heritage sites while showcasing Cambodia’s natural landscapes and cultural assets. Phnom Kulen, known for its waterfalls, forests, sacred sites, and historical significance, has long been viewed as a destination with significant untapped tourism potential.

“The Draft Key Measures… will serve as an important strategic framework to enhance the destination’s appeal and attract more domestic and international tourists, encouraging visitors to explore attractions beyond the Angkor Archaeological Park,” Hak said.

Prime Minister’s Vision Supports Nature Tourism

The minister also recalled Prime Minister Hun Manet’s direction during the 19th Government Private Sector Forum, where the Ministry of Tourism was tasked with developing Phnom Kulen into a leading nature tourism destination.

That vision aligns with Cambodia’s broader goal of promoting sustainable tourism while protecting natural resources and creating long term opportunities for local businesses. As planning moves forward, officials are expected to continue working with public agencies, private sector partners, and local communities to turn the strategy into practical action.

For more information about the Ministry of Tourism’s initiatives, readers can visit the ministry’s official website at https://www.tourismcambodia.org.

Conclusion

The draft development plan for Phnom Kulen marks another important step in Cambodia’s efforts to strengthen its tourism industry while promoting sustainable and inclusive growth. By expanding tourism beyond Angkor and investing in one of the country’s most significant natural destinations, the government hopes to attract more visitors, extend their stays, and generate greater economic opportunities for communities across Siem Reap. If successfully implemented, Phnom Kulen could emerge as one of Cambodia’s most attractive nature tourism destinations in the years ahead.

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Cambodia’s domestic aviation sector is entering a new phase of growth as local airlines expand flight services to strengthen connections between the country’s three major economic and tourism destinations. With the launch of new domestic routes by Cambodia Airways and the continued expansion of services by other local carriers, travelers now have faster and more convenient access between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. The expansion comes as Cambodia continues rebuilding its tourism industry while making better use of its modern airport infrastructure to improve travel experiences for both local and international visitors.

The latest developments reflect a broader effort to create a seamless national air network that supports tourism, business, and investment. By increasing daily flight frequencies and reducing dependence on lengthy road travel, Cambodian airlines are helping visitors experience multiple destinations within a single trip while supporting the country’s long term economic recovery.

Cambodia Airways Launches New Domestic Routes

Cambodia Airways has officially introduced two new domestic routes connecting Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. The services are operated using the airline’s newly acquired ATR 72 600 aircraft, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient travel option between Cambodia’s most important destinations.

According to the airline, the new routes represent more than just an expansion of its domestic network. They are designed to improve travel convenience while creating stronger links between Cambodia’s international and domestic flight services. More information about the airline’s announcement is available through the original report published by Khmer Times.

“These inaugural flights not only further strengthen connections between Cambodia’s three key cities but also play a significant role in seamlessly connecting international passengers through Cambodia Airways’ integrated international and domestic network, bringing new momentum to the recovery of the Kingdom’s tourism economy,” the airline said in a statement issued on Tuesday.

A Stronger Air Network for Tourism and Business

The newly introduced flight network forms a convenient triangle connecting Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and Sihanoukville International Airport. This integrated route system makes it easier for travelers to move quickly between Cambodia’s political, cultural, and coastal centers without relying on long road journeys.

For international visitors, the expanded domestic network provides greater flexibility when planning itineraries. Tourists can arrive in Phnom Penh, explore the ancient temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, and continue to Cambodia’s southern beaches in Sihanoukville with significantly shorter travel times.

Airport Operator Welcomes New Flight Connections

Cambodia Airports, the operator of Techo International Airport and Sihanoukville International Airport, welcomed the launch of the new services. The company described the new routes as an important milestone that strengthens national connectivity and improves access to Cambodia’s major destinations.

In a Facebook post published on Tuesday, the airport operator highlighted the significance of the expanded network.

“This milestone strengthens connectivity from/to Sihanouk International Airport and brings Cambodia’s key destinations closer together,” it said in a Facebook post on Tuesday.

Domestic Airlines Increase Flight Frequencies

Cambodia Airways is not the only carrier expanding domestic services. National flag carrier Air Cambodia and AirAsia Cambodia have also introduced daily domestic flights, giving travelers more choices and greater scheduling flexibility.

Local airlines have optimized their aircraft fleets to support more frequent services, allowing passengers to travel between major cities in a fraction of the time required by traditional highway transportation. The increased availability of flights is expected to benefit tourists, business travelers, and local residents alike.

Modern Airports Support Cambodia’s Tourism Recovery

According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, Cambodia’s fully operational airport infrastructure in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap has created new opportunities for domestic airlines to expand services. The country’s upgraded aviation facilities enable airlines to maximize operations while improving connectivity for international arrivals.

The aviation authority explained that the stronger domestic network allows international visitors to enjoy a more complete Cambodian experience during a single visit. Travelers can conduct business in the capital, discover the world famous Angkor temples, and relax along the country’s coastline without facing long overland journeys.

The State Secretariat of Civil Aviation also reported that Cambodia is currently served by 35 airlines, including four domestic carriers and 31 international airlines, connecting the Kingdom with destinations across ASEAN, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East.

Conclusion

The expansion of Cambodia’s domestic flight network marks another important step in strengthening the country’s tourism and transportation sectors. With more frequent flights, improved airport infrastructure, and better connectivity between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, travelers now have greater convenience than ever before. As airlines continue investing in domestic operations, Cambodia is positioning itself as an easier and more attractive destination for international visitors, business travelers, and local tourists alike.

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Cambodia and the United States have reached a historic milestone by signing their first Open Skies Air Transport Agreement, a move expected to reshape the future of Techo International Airport and strengthen economic ties between the two nations. Signed in Washington DC, the landmark agreement opens a new chapter for Cambodia’s aviation sector by expanding international air services, improving connectivity, and creating fresh opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment. The agreement also follows growing United States financial support for the country’s newest international airport, reinforcing confidence in Cambodia’s long term aviation ambitions.

Beyond aviation, the agreement is expected to deliver wider economic benefits. Industry experts believe it will improve the movement of passengers and cargo, support exporters of high value products, create new jobs, and position Cambodia as a more competitive destination for global business. Together with Techo International Airport’s upcoming operations, the agreement could become one of the country’s most significant aviation achievements in recent years.

Historic Aviation Agreement Strengthens Bilateral Relations

The Open Skies Air Transport Agreement was officially signed on Tuesday by Mao Havannall, Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, and Christopher Landau, Deputy Secretary of State of the United States, during a ceremony in Washington DC.

According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, the agreement represents the first bilateral air transport pact between Cambodia and the United States. It brings aviation cooperation between the two countries in line with modern international standards while laying the foundation for stronger civil aviation relations in the years ahead.

The signing comes shortly after the United States International Development Finance Corporation approved a Letter of Intent worth US$100 million to support financing for Techo International Airport. Together, these developments demonstrate expanding commercial cooperation between Cambodia and the United States and growing confidence in Cambodia’s aviation infrastructure.

Greater Connectivity for Passengers and Businesses

One of the agreement’s biggest advantages is the greater flexibility it provides airlines serving both countries. Air carriers will be able to offer more competitive, convenient, and efficient services for both travelers and cargo operators, making international travel and freight transportation more accessible.

The agreement also includes all cargo seventh freedom traffic rights, allowing cargo airlines to operate between the United States and third countries without requiring an operational connection to Cambodia. This provision is expected to create new logistics opportunities while improving regional and international cargo networks.

As Cambodia continues expanding its aviation partnerships under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet, the Royal Government aims to negotiate additional air transport agreements while strengthening existing bilateral aviation cooperation with countries around the world.

Experts See Long Term Economic Benefits

Economist Duch Darin described the agreement as a major positive step for Cambodia’s future economic development.

“This is because the agreement has the potential to increase competition in the aviation sector, improve the ease of travel, and facilitate the air transportation of goods. As a result, it can also help strengthen Cambodia’s exports, particularly for high value products that rely on air freight for efficient delivery,” he noted.

According to Darin, stronger aviation competition could lower transportation costs while making Cambodia more attractive to international investors, exporters, and travelers. Businesses shipping electronics, fresh agricultural products, premium foods, and other time sensitive goods are expected to benefit the most from faster and more reliable air freight services.

Twelve Years of Negotiations Reach a Breakthrough

The agreement marks the successful conclusion of negotiations that began more than a decade ago. During a visit to Phnom Penh on June 5, Hunt VanderToll, the United States Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, met with senior Cambodian officials to discuss bilateral relations and economic cooperation.

A key outcome of those discussions was confirmation that negotiations on the Open Skies agreement had finally been completed after twelve years. The agreement was designed to encourage additional commercial flights, strengthen tourism, and increase bilateral trade between both countries.

Hunt also welcomed the Development Finance Corporation’s planned investment in Techo International Airport, describing it as an important step toward improving regional connectivity.

US Financing Signals Confidence in Techo International Airport

Momentum continued on June 22 when Pung Carolyne, Vice Chairperson of Canadia Group and Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation, together with Caroline Vik, Chief Policy Officer of the Development Finance Corporation, signed a Letter of Intent to advance the proposed US$100 million financing initiative. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Tith Peou, Secretary of State of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation.

The investment highlights growing international confidence in Techo International Airport, which is expected to become Cambodia’s primary international aviation gateway and an important hub connecting Southeast Asia with global markets.

Trade and Tourism Expected to Accelerate

Sam Seun, a policy analyst at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, believes the agreement represents another important milestone in Cambodia United States relations.

“The agreement demonstrates the SSCA’s efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation with the US despite geopolitical uncertainties. Although it does not target specific products, it creates a more favourable environment for trade, investment and tourism, which can contribute to Cambodia’s long term economic growth,” he said.

Seun noted that the United States remains Cambodia’s largest export destination, purchasing approximately 40 percent of the Kingdom’s exports. Improved air connectivity could significantly benefit exporters handling premium goods and products requiring rapid delivery to overseas markets.

He also believes the agreement could create more employment opportunities as trade, logistics, and tourism continue expanding while giving Cambodian consumers greater access to products from the United States.

Recommendations for Future Growth

While welcoming the agreement, Seun encouraged the Royal Government to continue identifying new export opportunities for the United States market and further simplify customs procedures to make international trade more efficient.

He also suggested that Cambodia consider extending visa free entry to American tourists, similar to the policy introduced for Chinese visitors on June 15.

“Such a move would help strengthen people to people exchanges and demonstrate Cambodia’s openness to all international partners,” he added.

Conclusion

The Cambodia United States Open Skies Air Transport Agreement represents far more than an aviation milestone. It is a strategic step toward deeper economic cooperation, stronger trade, improved tourism, and greater international connectivity. Combined with ongoing investment in Techo International Airport, the agreement positions Cambodia to become an increasingly important aviation and logistics hub in Southeast Asia. As new flight routes, cargo services, and business opportunities emerge, the benefits are expected to extend well beyond the airport, supporting long term economic growth across the Kingdom.

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Cambodia is stepping up its commitment to sustainable tourism with the launch of the Cambodia Inland Ocean Festival at Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap province. Held on June 26 and 27, the two day event brought together government leaders, tourism professionals, community members, and environmental advocates to celebrate the country’s natural heritage while encouraging responsible travel. The festival also highlighted ongoing efforts to transform Kampong Khleang into a model plastic free tourism destination that supports local livelihoods and protects one of Southeast Asia’s most important freshwater ecosystems.

Organized by the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the Siem Reap provincial administration, the celebration was held under the theme “Visit Cambodia’s Green Season for Kampong Khleang Community.” The initiative aimed to attract more visitors during the green season, raise awareness about environmental conservation, strengthen community based tourism, and demonstrate how sustainable tourism can contribute to long term economic development.

Festival Highlights Cambodia’s Green Tourism Vision

The Cambodia Inland Ocean Festival served as a platform to showcase the beauty of Tonle Sap Lake while promoting environmentally responsible tourism. Throughout the two day event, participants joined activities designed to encourage sustainable travel, reduce plastic waste, and strengthen cooperation among tourism stakeholders and local communities.

The opening ceremony welcomed several prominent officials, including Siem Reap Deputy Governor Ngov Sengkak, Ministry of Tourism Secretary of State Kuch Pannhasa, and Cambodia Association of Travel Agents President Chhay Sivlin. Their participation reflected the government’s growing focus on balancing tourism development with environmental protection and community wellbeing.

Tonle Sap Remains a Valuable Natural Treasure

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Ngov Sengkak emphasized that the festival supports the Royal Government’s broader strategy to expand green tourism and community based tourism as drivers of economic growth and improved living standards.

“This event carries deep significance because it not only showcases the rich natural beauty of Cambodia’s green season but also expresses appreciation for the immense value of Tonle Sap Lake,” Ngov Sengkak said.

He also highlighted the exceptional tourism potential of Tonle Sap Lake, noting that the floating villages, unique way of life, and abundant natural resources offer visitors authentic cultural and ecological experiences that cannot be found elsewhere in Cambodia.

Environmental Protection Takes Center Stage

While celebrating the lake’s beauty, officials also acknowledged the environmental pressures facing the region. Plastic pollution and the growing impacts of climate change continue to threaten the health of Tonle Sap and the communities that depend on it.

Ngov Sengkak stressed that protecting the lake requires cooperation from government agencies, businesses, local residents, and visitors alike. He called on everyone to work together to preserve Cambodia’s natural resources so future generations can continue to benefit from them.

Cleanup Campaign Removes Forty Tonnes of Plastic Waste

The festival also highlighted the progress of ongoing environmental initiatives in Kampong Khleang. According to BambooShoot Foundation President Sea Sophal, a cleanup campaign carried out between January and June removed approximately 40 tonnes of plastic waste from the commune.

Sea Sophal explained that the long term goal is to transform Kampong Khleang into a model plastic free tourism destination. Beyond improving environmental conditions, the initiative is expected to create new economic opportunities for local communities by attracting environmentally conscious travelers and supporting sustainable tourism businesses.

Readers can learn more about the original report from Khmer Times.

A Sustainable Future for Cambodia’s Tourism

The Cambodia Inland Ocean Festival represents more than a celebration of Tonle Sap Lake. It reflects the country’s growing commitment to protecting its natural environment while creating meaningful economic opportunities for local communities through sustainable tourism.

As Cambodia continues to promote green season travel and responsible tourism practices, destinations such as Kampong Khleang are emerging as examples of how conservation and community development can go hand in hand. By reducing plastic waste, preserving unique cultural traditions, and encouraging eco friendly travel, Cambodia is laying the foundation for a stronger and more sustainable tourism industry.

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