Batam, Indonesia | Thriving Tourism Highlighted by Visitor Numbers Continue to Rise Steadily

Batam, the largest city in the Indonesian province of Riau Islands, with an administrative areas that covers three main islands include Rampang, Galang, as well as Bulang to the west and several smaller islands, a free exchange zone, as part of the Sijori crescent triangle, located 20 kilometres off Singapore’s southern coast and served by the International airport of Hang Nadim is experiencing a thriving tourism with visitor numbers continue to rise steadily. 

The Indonesian city, an emerging transport hub, has attracted more than 100.000 international visitors per month from January to July 2025, with total arrivals reaching 861.712, a 21.7% increase compared to the same period last year, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS) as reported by Antara News, the country’s news agency.

These numbers place the city on track to achieve its 2025 target of 1.7 million international visitors. The highest monthly figure was in June with 167.469 arrivals, while July saw 123.526 tourists.

Malaysia remains the largest source market, accounting for almost 80% of of international travellers to the Riau Island province. However Indonesian officials are seeking more flexible visa policies for visitors from such countries as China, India and others to stimulate further growth and they credit the positive momentum to close collaborations between transport operators, hotels, tour companies, and local destination managers.

Batam is a favourite destination particularly for budget - conscious travel especially from nearby Singapore and Malaysia looking for a mix of shopping, affordable dining, massages, and water sports, a city with a developing local vibe, offering opportunities to experience local markets and culture alongside modern amenities like malls and resorts.

Batam Tourism Head Ardiniwata said the growth underscores the city’s evolving tourism appeal adding that if visa rules are relaxed, arrivals will grow even faster.

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