PLANS to build new gaming centers in the Middle East and Asia would pose a major challenge for Macau – the largest gambling hub in the world.
It might still take years before new gambling hubs will exist outside of Macau but such proposals are beginning to create a competitive pressure for the so-called “Las Vegas of the East.”
The autonomous region located on the south coast of China is home to the world’s largest gambling hub which earns gaming revenue six times that of Las Vegas.
As Macau continues to enjoy the spotlight, the traditionally conservative regions of the Middle East and Asia are now starting to change their economic outlook by moving toward building or allowing their first casinos.
A few examples include a plan by MGM Resorts International and Wynn Resorts Limited to build billion-dollar resorts in Japan which have legalized casinos.
Moreover, politicians are considering a large gaming complex in Thailand to rival the famous Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Talks about allowing gambling in the UAE are also gaining momentum.
The establishment of new international gaming centers in the future would pose a major challenge for Macau, as gamblers would have more options to hop on a plane and try other gambling hubs outside of the region.
