Phú Quốc Unveils a Stunning New Look

As Phu Quoc prepares to host the 2027 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC 2027), one of the most transformative projects is the Phu Quoc International Airport. With an investment of nearly VND 22 trillion, this project is set to redefine the gateway to the Southwest region, increasing its capacity to 20 million passengers annually and achieving 4E standards to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747, Boeing 787, and Airbus A350.

The record-breaking construction pace underscores Vietnam’s commitment to setting new benchmarks in aviation. Terminal T2, inspired by the fiery Phoenix, is rising majestically above the southern skies of the island. The VIP terminal, designed with the motif of a sea eagle, will welcome world leaders attending APEC.

Beyond expansion, the airport integrates cutting-edge technologies such as the TAM model, touchless biometrics, and the ICS system, reducing check-in times to 15-20 seconds per passenger. This modernization not only supports APEC but also establishes a new infrastructure standard for Phu Quoc in the coming decade.

While the airport symbolizes connectivity, the APEC Conference Center represents the heart of Phu Quoc’s emerging urban identity.

This VND 21 trillion complex will host APEC 2027’s key meetings and embodies Vietnamese cultural and architectural philosophies. The circular multi-purpose theater symbolizes Heaven, while the square conference center represents Earth, creating a harmonious and iconic ensemble. Incorporating motifs like dragon scales, bamboo groves, and Phu Quoc’s ocean waves, the center is poised to become a defining landmark of its era.

The center features an 81-meter column-free ballroom spanning 11,050 m², surpassing the current largest ballroom at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas (10,220 m²). Additional facilities include versatile meeting rooms, a 2,000-seat dinner show venue, and an International Press Center accommodating 3,000-4,000 journalists, underscoring the project’s scale. Construction is 34% complete, on track for APEC 2027.

A new urban identity is not solely defined by iconic structures but also by connectivity. Phu Quoc is witnessing an unprecedented expansion of its transportation network.

The 19-kilometer DT975 route is being widened to over 62 meters, incorporating land reserves for future urban rail transit. Upon completion in early 2027, it will serve as the backbone connecting the airport, conference center, An Thoi, and Bai Truong—key drivers of the island’s southern development.

Linked to DT975 is the 68-meter-wide APEC Boulevard, slated for completion by late 2026. Beyond facilitating APEC delegations, it will foster urban, commercial, and service development, charting a long-term growth trajectory for the island.

For the first time, Phu Quoc is developing a large-scale public transit system, including an 18-kilometer urban rail line with a capacity of 4,500 passengers per hour. This initiative marks a shift toward green, intelligent mobility, alleviating road congestion and enhancing tourism services.

Once operational, the rail system will enable seamless travel between the airport and conference center, setting a new standard for island urban development.

These developments are not merely for APEC 2027 but lay the foundation for Phu Quoc’s next phase: a modern island city, an international tourism and conference hub, and a regional event destination.

From the skyward reach of the Phoenix Terminal to the expansive boulevards and culturally rich architecture, Phu Quoc’s transformation is unfolding daily. APEC 2027 is both a milestone and a launchpad for the island’s global emergence as a destination of distinction.