Resorts World Sentosa will “be ready” when Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority reviews its casino license renewal in 2026, CEO Lee Shi Ruh told CNBC late last month.
In November 2024, the gambling regulator renewed the integrated resort’s license for only two years—rather than the usual three—citing “unsatisfactory” tourism performance from 2021 to 2023. The decision came despite Resorts World Sentosa’s earlier pledge to invest S$6.8 billion (US$5.3 billion) in renewing and expanding the property.
Lee said the shortened license period has not altered the resort’s investment or expansion plans. In 2025, the company unveiled two major attractions: Minion Land at Universal Studios Singapore and the Singapore Oceanarium, which replaced the former S.E.A. Aquarium.
“This year is truly a game-changer for us,” Lee said. “From now until 2030, we will continue rolling out new attractions.”
When issuing the two-year renewal, the Gambling Regulatory Authority assessed the resort’s ability to “develop, maintain and promote” itself as a top-tier tourist destination. Lee said the focus moving forward is on transforming Resorts World Sentosa into a premium lifestyle destination.
Shifting from Shopping to Experiences
Lee noted that shopping, once a major draw for Asian travelers, is no longer central to the resort’s transformation. “Our focus is really on experiences,” she said.
Replacing Universal Studios Singapore’s “Madagascar”-themed zone with Minion Land was partly driven by the global popularity of the “Despicable Me” franchise. “Minions have universal appeal—they resonate with visitors of all ages and from all over the world because of their unique language,” Lee explained.
Minions speak “Minionese,” a playful mix of English, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, and Tagalog, according to the “Despicable Me” fandom website.
Looking ahead, Resorts World Sentosa plans to open The Laurus, a luxury hotel styled like a “collector’s home,” in late 2025. Future projects include the launch of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Singapore and a new elevated waterfront lifestyle complex featuring a 700-room hotel, hiking trails, and a 289-foot light sculpture.
“The waterfront complex will enhance the appeal of the Greater Southern Waterfront,” Lee said, describing it as a brownfield project visible from mainland Singapore. She declined to confirm whether the complex will include gaming facilities.
Source: CNBC
