This momentum gained further traction following Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW issued by the Politburo on December 22, 2024, which designated science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as foundational pillars of national development.

When digital transformation becomes a growth driver

Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, blockchain, and virtual reality (VR) are revolutionizing the travel experience and promoting sustainable tourism.

In 2024, domestic tourists reached approximately 110 million, while international arrivals hit around 17.5 million - an increase of nearly 39% compared to 2023. Total tourism revenue was estimated at 850 trillion VND (approximately 33.4 billion USD).

David Duc, a Vietnamese-British expat, returned to Vietnam and chose Quang Ninh Museum as the first stop of his visit. He was surprised to find the entire museum - from its exhibition space to the narration system - enhanced with digital technology.

Traditional paper tickets have been replaced with online bookings and automated QR-code scanning turnstiles.

The museum offers multilingual audio guides in English and Vietnamese. These narrations, paired with specific codes for each exhibit - such as the Yen Tu relic and the Truc Lam Zen sect or the coal mining heritage - allow visitors to gain deeper insight into local history and culture.

Guests can also explore the museum in 3D at baotangao.baotangquangninh.vn or enjoy 360-degree virtual tours of landmarks like Tra Co Communal House, Dong Pagoda in Yen Tu, and Ha Long Bay through cameras installed at heritage sites.

In Da Nang - Vietnam’s digital transformation leader - initiatives like “One-touch to Da Nang” (VR360), 3D scan integration, the digital tourism portal, and online travel fairs have significantly boosted tourism promotion.

At Furama Resort, a robot named “Ms. Ariyana” has assisted in hosting numerous major events, including the welcoming of General Secretary To Lam on March 29, 2025, the 2024 Da Nang Semiconductor Day, Super Vietnam 2025, and the 2025 AI Da Nang Conference. Her presence contributes to professionalizing hospitality and optimizing human resources.

Hanoi has embraced digital tools in its diverse tourism offerings, including spiritual, handicraft, and cultural heritage experiences.

With support from the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the capital has introduced electronic ticketing systems at 13 sites including the Temple of Literature, the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, and the National Museum of History, using a "Connected-Online-Multimodal" model.

According to the Vietnam E-commerce Association (VECOM), over 60% of domestic tourists book hotel rooms and tours online, while international usage exceeds 75%.

Pham Van Thuy, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, noted that digital transformation is reshaping the tourism sector toward greater professionalism and efficiency.

Core to this transformation is the creation of a shared digital ecosystem, including the Vietnam Tourism Database, tourism statistics software, and the “Vietnam Travel” mobile app.

Laying the foundation for innovation

In cities like Hanoi, Khanh Hoa, and Ho Chi Minh City, attractions are being digitized, and electronic ticketing and cashless payment systems are becoming the norm.

Tourism businesses are now integrating AI and big data for market analysis and customer service, while energy-efficient technologies and IoT are being implemented in accommodation facilities.

Nguyen Lam Nguyen, Deputy Director of Quang Ninh’s Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, shared that nearly 200 out of 370 provincial heritage sites now offer QR codes for visitors to access detailed cultural and historical information.

Through digital platforms, Hanoi’s tourism sector has launched strategic communication campaigns to promote a civilized, safe, and friendly image.

According to Tran Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of Hanoi’s Department of Tourism, the capital has invested in night tourism linked to historical sites such as Hoa Lo Prison and the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.

It has also promoted health tourism with the Hanoi Center for Advanced Endoscopy and Gastroenterology at Saint Paul General Hospital.

High-quality agricultural and eco-tourism tied to rural development has attracted thousands of domestic and international visitors annually.

Tourism businesses - especially in accommodation - have rapidly shifted to digital platforms. Most hotels in Da Nang now operate via online booking platforms like Agoda, Booking, and Traveloka.

Major hotel chains have adopted smart technology, including ChatGPT-integrated chatbots, hotel management systems, 360-degree travel experiences, self-check-in via kiosk or mobile app, digital room service, and online feedback systems.

Vu The Binh, President of the Vietnam Tourism Association, emphasized that without keeping pace with digital transformation, the tourism industry will struggle in an increasingly competitive global market.

Since the Tourism Law came into effect in 2018, modern science and technology have been established as key drivers of industry growth.

Numerous tourism expos have been held under themes aligned with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, creating the mindset and foundation needed for continued innovation.

Nhan Dan