MGM Osaka Casino Resort: A $10 Billion Landmark in Japan’s Tourism Future
The MGM Osaka Integrated Resort (IR), an ambitious $10 billion project, is set to redefine Japan’s entertainment and tourism landscape. Construction of this landmark development, situated on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay, will officially commence in April 2025, with the grand opening planned for autumn 2030.
Led by Osaka IR KK, a consortium of MGM Resorts International (U.S.) and Orix Corporation (Japan), the resort is poised to become a global destination, blending luxury accommodations, gaming, and cultural experiences.
Project Scope and Key Features
Spanning over 492,680 square meters, the MGM Osaka IR will feature a gross floor area of approximately 770,525 square meters. Its centerpiece, “Section B,” will include a 27-story main building with one basement floor, housing:
- Casino: A state-of-the-art gaming facility with cutting-edge technology, spanning over 50,000 square meters.
- Luxury Hotel: Offering 2,500 rooms across three internationally branded properties.
- Theater: Hosting world-class live performances and cultural events.
- Retail and Dining: A selection of high-end boutiques and over 30 diverse dining establishments.
- MICE Facilities: Approximately 730,000 square feet dedicated to Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions.
The resort is designed by the renowned Takenaka Corporation and Nihon Sekkei Inc., promising a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern architecture.
Economic Impact and Staffing
With an estimated annual visitor count of 20 million, the resort is expected to generate significant economic benefits:
- Cost of Construction: The total investment is approximately $10 billion (JPY 1.27 trillion), a testament to Japan’s commitment to establishing integrated resorts.
- Job Creation: The project will directly and indirectly create approximately 15,000 jobs, ranging from construction roles to permanent positions in hospitality, retail, gaming, and entertainment.
- Operational Workforce: MGM Osaka plans to employ over 10,000 staff members for resort operations, including specialized roles in gaming, culinary arts, and customer service.
This significant workforce initiative includes recruitment drives targeting local talent and global professionals, offering comprehensive training programs to ensure world-class service standards.
Construction Timeline and Progress
- October 2024: Preparatory groundwork began, setting the stage for the main construction phase.
- April 2025: Official launch of the primary construction phase.
- July 2030: Scheduled completion of construction.
- Autumn 2030: Grand opening of the MGM Osaka Integrated Resort.
The meticulous planning ensures that all deadlines align with Osaka’s regional revitalization goals, enhancing its position as a global tourism hub.
Strategic Importance and Vision
The MGM Osaka IR reflects Japan’s efforts to boost its tourism and gaming industries, following legislative changes permitting integrated resorts. By combining luxury and cultural authenticity, the development aims to position Osaka as a premier destination on the global map.
In addition to its economic contributions, the resort is designed to foster cultural exchange, with spaces dedicated to showcasing traditional Japanese art, cuisine, and performances.
Japan and other countries with plans to open new casinos in Asia
The MGM Osaka Integrated Resort is more than just a casino—it’s a transformative project that blends entertainment, luxury, and cultural experiences. With its impressive scale, multi-billion-dollar investment, and significant job creation, this landmark development will stand as a beacon of Japan’s hospitality and gaming industries, attracting millions of visitors annually while bolstering local and national economies.
Japan’s entry into the integrated resort market comes as other Asian nations are also ramping up their gaming and entertainment sectors. The Philippines, for example, continues to expand its Entertainment City in Manila, featuring several world-class casinos. Meanwhile, South Korea is advancing its own integrated resort projects, including the highly anticipated Inspire Entertainment Resort near Incheon International Airport. Vietnam, Singapore, and Macau remain strong contenders in the region, with developments aimed at attracting high-value tourists.
This competitive landscape underscores the growing importance of Asia in the global casino and hospitality industry, making the MGM Osaka Integrated Resort a vital player in a rapidly evolving market.
