It surpassed over 10 rivals including Bangkok, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, New Delhi, Penang, Seoul and Singapore to claim the title.

Hong Kong plans to host 100 mega events for the second half of this year to draw over 1.85 million visitors to the city.

Tourists take photo of the skyline of buildings at Tsim Sha Tsui, in Hong Kong, China, May 2, 2023. Photo by Reuters

Hong Kong Cyclothon, Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival and others could create a total sales value of 5.9 billion Hong Kong dollars (US$752 million) in the second half, Xinhua News Agency reported.

The city will host the 2026 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers' Meeting in October.

With revitalized neighborhoods, a thriving dining and nightlife scene, world-class cultural institutions and some of Asia's most ambitious tourism campaigns, Hong Kong is emerging as a favorite destination of tourists.

The city received 36.67 million visitors in the first eight months of this year, an 11% increase year-on-year.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards recognize achievements in the travel and tourism industry and are often described as the "Oscars of the travel industry."

Winners are selected through votes from travel industry professionals and the public.