written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
14 Mar 2025
Journalist, Editorial Department
The Special Committee overseeing the development of entertainment complexes in Thailand has announced the cities where the country's first casinos will be located. Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai, and Phuket have been selected due to their strategic importance and tourism potential, according to committee vice-chairman Nikom Boonwiset.
Previously, it was reported that Thailand plans to build between five and eight entertainment complexes across the nation, although the government has yet to finalize the exact number.
Nikom Boonwiset stated that the project's implementation is estimated to cost around 500 billion Thai baht (approximately $14 billion). These complexes are expected to attract at least 50 million tourists annually and create over 40,000 jobs. The opening of casinos is also anticipated to accelerate economic growth and increase government revenues.
The entertainment complexes will offer more than just casinos; they will also feature five-star hotels, shopping malls, amusement parks, sports arenas, and convention halls. Only 10% of the total area of each complex will be allocated for casino operations.
Citigroup forecasts that gross gaming revenue in Thailand could reach $9.1 billion, making the country the third-largest gaming market in the world, following Macau and Las Vegas, and surpassing Singapore.
Leading global operators are already vying for the opportunity to invest in the project, including Galaxy Entertainment Group, MGM Resorts International, Las Vegas Sands, and Wynn Resorts. They view Thailand as a promising alternative amid the stagnation of the gaming industry in Macau.
It is worth noting that the Thai government has lifted the requirement for a multi-million baht deposit for casino players.
