Resorts World Sentosa faces reduced licence tenure due to inadequate results.
Resorts World Sentosa’s (RWS) casino licence will be renewed for two years instead of the typical three, following an evaluation that deemed its tourism performance unsatisfactory. The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) announced on 18/11/2024 that the renewal will take effect on 06/02/2025.
Evaluation and Decision
This marks the first time the GRA has issued a casino licence with a reduced tenure. The decision was based on RWS’ ability to enhance its integrated resort as a competitive tourist destination. An evaluation panel, appointed by the Minister for Trade and Industry, assessed RWS’ performance from 2021 to 2023 and found several areas requiring significant improvement.
Contributions from the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), and Sentosa Development Corp (SDC) also informed the decision. Details of the specific performance metrics were not disclosed by MTI.
Panel Recommendations and GRA’s Role
The evaluation panel has advised that the next review of RWS take place in 2026. Meanwhile, the GRA, alongside MTI, STB, and SDC, will oversee RWS’ progress in promoting itself as a top-tier tourist destination.
RWS’ Response and Future Plans
Genting Singapore, the operator of RWS, attributed the weaker performance to challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic during the evaluation period. The company emphasized its ongoing efforts to refresh its offerings and enhance visitor experiences.
A key component of these efforts is the $6.8 billion waterfront lifestyle complex slated for completion by 2030. This development will feature luxury hotels, a mountain trail, and an 88-meter-tall light sculpture, expanding the resort’s current footprint by 50% with over 164,000 sq m of additional floor space.
