Las Vegas Sands has officially broken ground on its US$8 billion expansion of Marina Bay Sands, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the world’s most luxurious resort destinations. The groundbreaking ceremony, held on July 15, was officiated by Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and attended by key figures, including Minister Grace Fu and Las Vegas Sands leaders Miriam Adelson, Robert Goldstein, and Patrick Dumont. Known as IR2, the development will feature a striking 55-storey hotel tower with 570 suites, each larger than those currently available at Marina Bay Sands. Additionally, the expansion will include more luxury retail, high-end dining, wellness amenities, and a 15,000-seat arena designed to host major international performances.
Redefining the Singapore Skyline
Designed by Safdie Architects, the new tower will introduce the “Skyloop,” a multi-level rooftop experience spanning 76,000 square feet. This unique space will blend public and private areas, offering a 360-degree view of Singapore’s skyline. Visitors can expect observatories, lush gardens, and restaurants on the lower levels, while upper levels will feature private cabanas, infinity pools, and wellness terraces dedicated to yoga and special events. Despite delays due to the pandemic and rising construction costs, the project is moving forward with renewed purpose. Costs have more than doubled from the original US$3.3 billion estimate, underscoring both the ambition and scale of this undertaking.
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A New Chapter for Integrated Resorts
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Wong emphasized that Marina Bay has become a symbol of Singapore’s transformation into a global hub for business, tourism, and entertainment. The new development is expected to bolster Singapore’s standing as a premier destination for meetings and conventions, adding 200,000 square feet of premium event space. Mr. Goldstein, chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands, stressed that the tower is not merely an extension but an entirely new identity for Marina Bay Sands. “We’re creating something distinct, unique, and world-class,” he said. This bold commitment reflects the long-standing partnership between Las Vegas Sands and Singapore, rooted in shared confidence and a willingness to take risks together.
A Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration
Beyond the steel and glass, this project tells a story about vision and collaboration. When Marina Bay Sands first opened in 2010, it redefined luxury tourism in Asia. Today, the integrated resort employs over 12,000 people and spends the vast majority of its procurement budget locally. The expansion will build on this legacy, combining sustainability, with low-carbon materials and waste management plans, with imagination. To commemorate the groundbreaking, Marina Bay Sands lit up in golden hues, a symbol of a bright future. As Robert Goldstein put it, this is more than a building; it is a testament to what can be achieved when a city empowers dreamers to excel.
Project Overview
Project Value: US$8 billion (S$10.3 billion), making it one of Singapore’s most ambitious tourism investments.
Location: Adjacent to the existing Marina Bay Sands resort in Singapore’s Marina Bay area.
Design Team: Designed by Safdie Architects, the same firm behind the original Marina Bay Sands structure.
New Hotel Tower: A 55-storey, all-suite tower with 570 luxury suites and larger average room sizes than the original MBS.
Skyloop Feature: A multi-storey rooftop experience called “Skyloop” with 76,000 sq ft of public and private amenities, including infinity pools, observatory, gardens, restaurants, and wellness spaces.
Additional Facilities: Includes a new gaming area, 200,000 sq ft of premium meeting space, and a 15,000-seat entertainment arena for international events.
Sustainability Focus: Incorporates low-carbon concrete, recycled steel, and a construction waste management plan to reduce environmental impact.
Project Timeline: Construction started in July 2025, with expected completion by June 2030 and an official opening in January 2031 (subject to approvals).
Economic Impact: Expected to further boost Singapore’s status as a global destination for luxury tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions).
Government Endorsement: Supported by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and key ministers, highlighting a strong public-private partnership and long-term confidence in Singapore’s tourism industry.
