F1 weekend drives 160pc surge in accommodation searches for KL and Sepang

KUALA LUMPUR — Search activity for accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, Sepang and surrounding regions has soared by over 160 percent year-on-year ahead of the upcoming Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit, according to Airbnb. Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb's country head for India and South-east Asia, highlighted the surge as evidence of how major sporting events continue to drive tourism and economic activity.

People are increasingly planning their travels around experiences such as concerts, festivals, and sports events, which can provide new opportunities for destinations to welcome visitors. Airbnb observed a significant increase in searches, primarily from international travelers originating in Singapore, China, Indonesia, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

These travelers accounted for about 75 percent of total searches. Within the surrounding areas, Kuala Lumpur accounted for more than 60 percent of searches, followed by Sepang at nearly 25 percent, and Petaling and Hulu Langat. While travelers are focusing on Sepang and neighboring areas closer to the circuit and airport, Kuala Lumpur remains the primary base for visitors.

Additionally, the data revealed that around 80 percent of searches extended beyond the race weekend, with visitors planning to stay for an average of nearly six nights. Trips involving two guests accounted for over one-third of searches, and bookings involving two or more guests made up nearly seven in 10.