Las Vegas Sands has officially broken ground on its ambitious US$8 billion (S$10.3 billion) expansion of Marina Bay Sands (MBS), marking the start of a transformative chapter for Singapore’s iconic waterfront destination. The groundbreaking ceremony, held on July 15, was officiated by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, alongside dignitaries and executives including Las Vegas Sands chairman and CEO Robert Goldstein and president Patrick Dumont.
Dubbed IR2, the expansion is set to deliver an ultra-luxurious all-suite hotel tower with 570 larger-than-current suites, high-end retail and dining, wellness offerings, a new gaming area, 200,000 square feet of premium MICE space, and a 15,000-seat entertainment arena. Designed by Safdie Architects, who also conceived the original MBS, the development will rise 55 floors and feature a multi-level rooftop experience called “Skyloop,” with panoramic views, restaurants, lush gardens, and private amenities like cabanas and infinity pools.
Originally announced in 2019, the project’s cost has more than doubled from US$3.3 billion due to inflation and pandemic-related delays. Sustainability will be central to the expansion, with low-carbon materials and a robust waste management plan aimed at reducing environmental impact.
Prime Minister Wong hailed the development as a “new chapter” for Marina Bay and a bold reaffirmation of the original vision behind Singapore’s integrated resorts. He emphasized the expansion’s role in strengthening Singapore’s global standing as a hub for business, entertainment, and tourism. Mr. Goldstein echoed this, calling the new tower “not an extension of MBS” but a “distinct, world-class” project that aims to elevate luxury tourism across Asia.
The celebration concluded with a golden light show at MBS and performances by local artist Jasmine Sokko and Canadian pop star Henry Lau.
Construction is expected to finish by June 2030, with an official opening in early 2031, pending government approval.
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