Sands China has outlined plans to invest in MICE and tourism facilities in Macau over the next decade.
The casino and resort operator, a subsidiary of Las Vegas Sands Corp,
said it plans to invest MOP27.8 billion (US$3.5 billion) in non-gaming
projects that will also appeal to international visitors. This includes
expanding, improving and optimising the scale and quality of its
convention centres and related amenities.
Plans include the development of an 18,000sqm MICE facility adjacent
to the existing Cotai Expo to cater for large-scale international MICE
events. Sands also said it will strengthen the planning, organisation
and international marketing of convention tourism in order to attract
global multinational companies to host annual meetings and corporate
summits in Macau.
An existing space, the ‘Tropical Garden’ on the south side of The
Londoner Macao will be redeveloped to create a 50,000sqm garden-themed
destination, called Le Jardin. The attraction will include a
conservatory together with related green-themed spaces and amenities,
with the aim of establishing Macau as a landmark of international
renown, providing a year-round themed attraction for tourists and
residents.
Sands China said it will also be spearheading Macau’s culinary
offering, developing several new restaurants and introducing innovative
international culinary concepts to support Macao's position as a city of
gastronomy. The company will also launch a luxury yacht experience
featuring on-board dining and entertainment including celebrity
appearances, as well as water sports.
Speaking at a recent press conference announcing the plans, Sands
China president Dr Wilfred Wong Ying Wai said: “With the support of the
government and an extraordinary level of commitment from Sands China,
Macau has evolved into a true international destination for leisure and
business travel. We believe continued growth in Macau is still in front
of us, and as demonstrated since we first began operating there, we will
continue supporting and investing in Macau as it solidifies its
position as one of the world's greatest tourism destinations."
Sands China is also establishing six new Sands China Academies
focusing on MICE, looking in particular at hospitality, integrated
resort management, responsible gaming and entertainment. The company
will create an incubation centre to nurture local technology innovation
and entrepreneurship.
Plans to promote Macao's cultural heritage to MICE participants were
also unveiled. Sands said a Macau ‘Heritage Carnival’ will be hosted
throughout traditional areas of the city, giving MICE groups the chance
to host events at Macao's historical landmarks. Programmes to revitalise
Macao's cultural heritage including partnering with local artists to
hold regular performances, exhibitions and workshops in renovated
buildings.