written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
30 Jun 2025
Journalist, Editorial Department
Jamaican authorities are set to transform the Rose Hall area into an official casino zone, a move that Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett believes will bring significant benefits to the country.
Speaking at the 64th annual meeting of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Bartlett announced that over $4 billion (approximately 313.16 billion rubles) will be invested in the development of the zone. This investment aims to establish Rose Hall as a leading global resort destination, offering tourists a wide array of entertainment options, including gambling.
The announcement of a dedicated casino zone has already led to the creation of more than 2,000 new hotel rooms. Major hotel brands are anticipating a surge in tourist traffic, partly due to the opportunity for legal betting on slot machines and other gaming activities.
Bartlett revealed plans for the Moon Palace hotel, which will feature a 33-story tower. This project is unprecedented in Jamaica in terms of both scale and execution. Additionally, a Hard Rock hotel will be constructed nearby, with both establishments serving as the centerpiece of the casino zone.
According to Bartlett, groundbreaking ceremonies are scheduled for July. The rapid pace of development is attributed to developers' eagerness to complete key construction phases and prepare the area for visitors.
The minister emphasized that protecting the interests of industry workers will be a priority. The government aims to ensure that casino and hotel employees receive fair wages and are treated with respect. The names of the future gaming establishments have not yet been disclosed.
Notably, North Korea is also planning to open a casino in the country's tallest building.
