Genting Singapore breaks ground on $5 billion Resorts World Sentosa waterfront expansion

Genting Singapore has begun construction on an SG$6.8 billion ($5 billion) expansion of its Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) property, marking a significant development for one of Asia's largest integrated resorts. A groundbreaking ceremony on Friday featured RWS CEO Tan Hee Teck and Minister of State for Trade and Industry and Culture, Community and Youth Alvin Tan, underscoring the importance of the long-anticipated project.

As part of the ceremony, RWS planted Hopea odorata saplings, a species native to Singapore. These will be nurtured in a nursery until the new outdoor space is ready to welcome them. "This symbolic gesture reflects RWS’ commitment to sustainability and the integration of local flora into the development,” RWS said.

The expansion, dubbed RWS 2.0, aims to introduce around 700 new hotel rooms and establish a monumental gateway to connect RWS with Singapore’s upcoming Greater Southern Waterfront precinct. Enhancements to the property include a new Minion Land at Universal Studios Singapore and a significant expansion of the S.E.A. Aquarium, which will be rebranded as the Singapore Oceanarium and triple in size. The popular Forum area is also set to undergo a transformation, with these and other new features slated for a soft opening in early 2025.

Genting Singapore’s Executive Chairman Lim Kok Thay described the project as an “incredible opportunity to upscale” RWS and support growth in Singapore's tourism sector. RWS 2.0 is expected to be rolled out progressively over the next eight years.

The expansion is fully funded through Genting’s internal resources. Originally budgeted at SG$4.5 billion ($3.3 billion) during the COVID-19 pandemic, Genting Singapore has since increased its investment to SG$6.8 billion ($5 billion) to support the project’s upgraded scope and ambitious goals.