Macau’s Chief Executive, Sam Hou Fai, has revealed plans to revitalise the city by tapping into its extensive land reserves. The focus is on developing a new international tourism and cultural zone alongside a science and technology park. The proposed developments also include major expansions in the city’s iconic casino industry, which remains the backbone of Macau’s economy.
During a Legislative Assembly session on 15 April 2025, Sam outlined the government’s strategy for using over five square kilometres of available land for a series of transformative projects.
Macau’s land reserve comprises 3.5 square kilometres of reclaimed land, 85 idle plots, and approximately 100 land parcels repossessed from developers who have not proceeded with their plans since 2009. Despite this significant pool of land, only 200,000 square metres have been developed to date.
The government plans to begin identifying potential sites for the tourism, cultural, and technology projects in the second half of this year. A key part of the government’s vision is to transform Macau into a hub for traditional gaming and cutting-edge industries.
More luxury locations in pipeline
Sam noted that several locations have already been proposed for the science and technology park, including the Macau Jockey Club site, the former Ocean World site near the University of Macau’s old Taipa campus, and land near the international airport.
However, the government has not overlooked the casino industry, which still drives the lion’s share of Macau’s economy. As part of the broader strategy, new casino resorts and related entertainment facilities will be incorporated into the international tourism and cultural zone.
These additions aim to enhance the city’s image as the ‘Gambling capital of the world’ while broadening its tourism appeal to attract more diverse visitors. Sam mentioned that the new cultural zone will be established along the coastal regions of both the Macau Peninsula and Taipa.
Sydney-style waterfront to see casinos?
The Chief Executive pointed to the possibility of creating a ‘Sydney-style’ waterfront, where high-end casinos and cultural landmarks coexist, offering a new kind of tourism experience. Macau plans to complete a cultural zone within five to ten years. This project will include world-class museums, performing arts venues, and commercial spaces that are designed to enhance the city’s existing resorts and casinos.
To ensure the success of these initiatives, the government is seeking collaborations with renowned global institutions, such as the Palace of Versailles in France and the British Museum in London. Public consultations will be held later this year to gather feedback on the proposed locations and development concepts for the new tourism and cultural zone.
