Marina Bay Sands, a renowned Singapore casino resort, is currently in negotiations with banks to secure a massive US$9 billion loan facility over a period of seven years. This loan is intended to support the resort’s expansion plans and refinance existing debt. If successful, this loan would break the previous record for the largest loan in Singapore, which was set at US$6.9 billion in 2012 when Thai billionaire Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi acquired Fraser & Neave Ltd.
The parent company of Marina Bay Sands, Las Vegas Sands, has estimated that the expansion work will cost around US$8 billion. This includes the construction of a fourth hotel tower with a gaming floor, a 15,000-seat arena, 570 new luxury suites, and a SkyPark. The total cost breakdown includes US$4.7 billion for design and building costs and US$2 billion for land premiums. The expansion project is set to commence by June 2025, with Las Vegas Sands aiming for a grand opening by January 2031.
Marina Bay Sands is one of the two mega casino resorts in Singapore, with its competitor, Resorts World Sentosa, facing challenges in meeting regulatory requirements. Due to “unsatisfactory” tourism performance, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Singapore has granted Resorts World Sentosa a two-year license extension instead of the typical three-year term. This development highlights the competitive landscape within the Singaporean casino industry.
The proposed expansion plans for Marina Bay Sands signify a significant investment in enhancing the resort’s offerings and attracting more visitors. The addition of a new hotel tower, entertainment facilities, and luxury suites aims to elevate the resort’s status as a premier destination for gaming and entertainment in the region. Las Vegas Sands’ ambitious timeline for completion reflects the company’s commitment to delivering a world-class experience for guests and maintaining its competitive edge in the market.
Overall, Marina Bay Sands’ pursuit of a record-breaking loan facility underscores the scale of its expansion ambitions and its strategic vision for growth in the highly competitive casino industry. With the backing of Las Vegas Sands and the support of financial institutions, the resort is poised to embark on a transformative journey that will shape its future and solidify its position as a leading player in the global gaming and hospitality sector.