By Chan Wei Chao (REN 39846), Team Leader, Bricksmen Team · IQI Realty Sdn. Bhd. · Updated 4 November 2026
Penang’s hotels are now hosting far more guests than before the pandemic. State tourism executive councillor Wong Hon Wai told the state assembly that Penang hotels recorded 4.25 million guests from January to June 2026, 45.5% more than in the same period of 2019. For the whole of 2025, hotel guests reached 8.77 million, 37.2% above 2019.
Penang hotel guests at a glance
| Period | Hotel guests | Compared with 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| January–June 2026 | 4.25 million | +45.5% (same period of 2019) |
| Full year 2025 | 8.77 million (5.29 million domestic, 3.47 million international) | +37.2% |
Other tourism figures from the assembly
- Business events: meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions brought an estimated RM1.98 billion to Penang in 2025, up from RM1.03 billion in 2023.
- Heritage: the state gazetted 63 heritage items in 2026, and George Town World Heritage Incorporated has allocated RM17.05 million in conservation incentives for 350 Category I and II heritage buildings. Read more about the safety inspections of George Town heritage buildings.
- Penang State Museum: reopened on 24 July and had 72,355 visitors by 14 October.
- Beyond George Town: the state is developing attractions in Seberang Perai, Balik Pulau and Batu Ferringhi, and plans to promote longer stays and more international flights.
What it means for Penang property
More visitors support jobs in hotels, restaurants and retail, and keep demand up for well-located homes in George Town, Gurney and the waterfront areas. Some owners also look at short-term rentals, but rules are tightening: read about the national short-term rental guidelines before buying for that purpose. Airport traffic is rising too; see our report on Penang airport passenger numbers.
Serviced suites in George Town and the Gelugor waterfront:
| Project | Area | Indicative price | Completion |
|---|---|---|---|
| G’Vinton | Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah | RM560,500–RM1,931,000 | 2028 |
| Scott @ Logan | Logan Road | RM496,800–RM1,664,800 | 2028 |
| Keeperz Suites | The Light Waterfront | From RM820,100 | Q2 2030 |
| The Lighthauz | Gelugor waterfront | From RM864,500 | September 2030 |
Frequently asked questions
How many hotel guests did Penang have in the first half of 2026?
4.25 million, 45.5% more than in January to June 2019.
How many hotel guests did Penang have in 2025?
8.77 million, 37.2% above 2019. Of these, 5.29 million were domestic and 3.47 million international.
How much did business events bring in?
An estimated RM1.98 billion in 2025.
Looking at property in George Town or the waterfront?
I can send the latest price lists and explain the rules for each project. WhatsApp or call +60 10-313 9113.
Sources
This article is general information based on state assembly statements as reported on 4 November 2026. It is not investment advice; short-term rental rules vary by building and local authority. Project prices are indicative and depend on availability.