MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) today announced that MGM China Holdings Limited, a 51%-owned subsidiary, has formally accepted a Land Concession Contract in the form of a lease granted by the Macau Government to develop a five-star luxury resort and casino in Cotai, Macau. The Company has paid the Macau Government the sum of approximately $56 million as the initial payment of the contract premium. The Macau Government will arrange for publication of the Land Concession Contract in the Official Gazette of Macau in due course.
With a budget of approximately $2.5 billion, the world-class resort will include approximately 1,600 hotel rooms, 500 gaming tables, and 2,500 slots built on an approximately 17.8 acre site. The resort will feature over 85% gross floor area of non-gaming offerings, including exciting restaurant, retail and entertainment offerings.
MGM China Chairman and Executive Director Pansy Ho said: “We are extremely appreciative of the Macau government for the grant of the land concession contract and the opportunity to build a spectacular resort. Our Cotai property will demonstrate our continued commitment to contribute to Macau as it develops into an international tourism and entertainment hub as well as a convention and meeting destination.”
Jim Murren, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MGM Resorts, who also serves as Co?Chairman of the Board of MGM China, said: “This destination resort represents a significant growth opportunity for MGM China. The project will fully demonstrate our strengths in terms of design and branding, quality of service, and thoughtful diversification of product offerings.”
Construction is expected to begin after the publication of the Land Concession Contract in the Official Gazette of Macau and is anticipated to take up to 36 months.