The Vision of a Fully Integrated Entertainment Complex
When you hear the term “entertainment complex,” what image comes to mind? For many, it’s a blend of luxury, leisure, and excitement all in one place. This concept is now being actively promoted by the Thai government, aiming to create a destination that offers something for everyone.
Imagine a vast area surrounded by top-tier five-star hotels, each offering unique experiences. Inside, guests can enjoy Michelin-starred dining, world-class shopping, and the latest in entertainment. There’s also a massive sky-top wave pool with a white sand beach, state-of-the-art convention facilities, and a live performance arena. Even a kids’ zone is included, ensuring that families have plenty to do. And while casinos are part of the mix, they only occupy 5% of the total space.
This isn’t just a dream; it’s a reality at Galaxy Resorts Macau, where visitors can enjoy a fully integrated leisure experience. With over 2 million square meters of development, the resort features nine ultra-premium and luxury branded hotels, more than 5,000 rooms, suites, and villas. It also includes over 120 restaurants, cafes, 200 luxury retail stores, and 3D cinemas, making it a complete destination.
The resort offers an extensive range of services without the need to leave. Whether it’s dining, shopping, live entertainment, business events, kids’ clubs, pools, spas, beauty outlets, or even a barber, golf simulator, and bowling alleys, everything is available on-site. Over 60,000 visitors come through the doors daily, making it a hub of activity.
Galaxy Resorts Thailand’s Chief Brand Officer, Kevin Clayton, emphasized the company’s commitment to staying ahead of the competition. He noted that continuous investment in products and services, along with listening to customers, anticipating change, innovating, and developing talent, has been key to their success.
Since its opening nearly 15 years ago, Galaxy Entertainment Group has invested approximately $13 billion in capital. The journey began when the Macau government liberalized its gambling industry, allowing multiple operators to compete. Galaxy secured the largest plot of land in the Cotai area, envisioning a world-leading integrated resort.
One of the recent expansions is Phase 3, featuring Asia’s most iconic Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) and the Galaxy Arena, which hosted 198 events last year. These additions have solidified Galaxy’s position as a hub for live entertainment and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions).
Among the standout attractions is Sushi Kissho, located in Raffles, led by Chef Miyakawa, who previously earned three Michelin stars in Hokkaido. In 2024, Galaxy Entertainment Group reported HK$43.4 billion (US$5.5 billion) in gross revenue, with Galaxy Resorts Macau contributing significantly.
While gaming is a major revenue source, it occupies only 5% of the gross floor area. The resort offers around 700 tables and 1,200 electronic gaming machines, with the main casino floor on the ground level, surrounded by shopping and dining areas. Responsible gambling initiatives are in place, including kiosks for support and self-exclusion programs, alongside staff trained to identify at-risk individuals.
To prevent money laundering, Galaxy works closely with regulators, using advanced technologies and surveillance systems. Transactions are tracked, encouraging repeat business and rewarding members with benefits similar to airline loyalty programs.
In 2024, Macau collected over $11 billion in gaming taxes, which are reinvested into infrastructure projects benefiting locals and tourists. Galaxy Entertainment Group is exploring opportunities to develop an iconic entertainment complex in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok. The company believes that such a project could attract high-spending tourists and encourage longer stays.
Thailand’s existing gambling market is estimated at over $33 billion, largely illegal and untaxed. Galaxy supports regulations for responsible casino access, similar to Macau’s minimum entry age of 21, restrictions on staff gambling, and limits on access for those with financial or mental health issues. If Thailand imposes a casino entry fee, it should reflect the country’s average income to avoid excluding local patrons.
Galaxy emphasizes the importance of creating a dedicated gaming regulator and introducing competitive tax rates to attract multi-billion dollar investments. Addressing concerns about Chinese tourists avoiding Thailand if legal casinos are developed, Clayton clarified that China focuses on cracking down on illegal capital outflows. Many Chinese tourists enter overseas casinos as part of their global travel, with gambling being just one aspect of their trip.
With over two decades of experience, Galaxy Entertainment Group is willing to work with authorities to combat illegal gambling while enhancing Thailand’s reputation as a progressive tourism destination.
