AIAI Proposes Transforming Old Siem Reap Airport Site into Dynamic Multi-Functional Development Zone

• Proeksa Meas
• 10 August 2026
• Construction Focus
• 1270 Views

Ministry of Tourism backs plans to combine commercial, entertainment, and night tourism initiatives to boost international visitor arrivals, with a special focus on key source markets like China…

Cambodia’s tourism landscape is set for a major transformation as Angkor International Airport Investment (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. (AIAI) unveiled plans to redevelop the site of the former Siem Reap International Airport into a modern multi-functional development zone. The strategic proposal was presented during a high-level meeting on July 31, 2026, between Cambodian Minister of Tourism Huot Hak and Lu Wei, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AIAI. Following the relocation of commercial air traffic to the new 1.1 billion dollar Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport in late 2023, the repurposing of the historic airport site aims to create fresh economic momentum and introduce innovative tourism offerings across Siem Reap province.

During the discussion, Lu Wei outlined a comprehensive vision designed to enhance air connectivity, expand tourism investments, and introduce dedicated night-time Angkor tourism experiences aimed at drawing global travelers to the Kingdom. Under the project blueprint, the old airport grounds will be transformed into an integrated urban hub combining commercial spaces, entertainment venues, hospitality services, and diverse economic activities. By creating an active lifestyle and commercial district closer to the city center, the project seeks to diversify Siem Reap’s tourism portfolio beyond traditional temple visits.

Minister Huot Hak expressed full support for AIAI’s initiative, noting that the Ministry of Tourism will maintain close collaboration with the company and relevant stakeholders to ensure the vision translates into tangible results. To accelerate progress, the Minister established a dedicated technical working group to work alongside AIAI experts in studying individual project components, formulating specialized tourism products, and evaluating long-term market impact.

Beyond physical site redevelopment, both parties agreed to join forces on international marketing campaigns to promote Cambodia as a premier travel destination, with a particular focus on expanding market share in China. In partnership with international airlines and travel operators, the initiative will seek to open new direct flight routes, increase flight frequencies, launch joint promotional campaigns, and attract high-spending international tourists to the country. (read more)

• Tourism and Travelling
• Ministry of tourism