Recently visited Singapore? If yes, you probably are aware of their new “entertainment centers” such as: the “Sand’s Marina Bay Resort & Casino” as wells as the “Resorts World” (including six hotels, Universal Studio and a casino) on Sentosa island.

No doubt that tourism is and will be extremely important to the future of the economy (which is famous for its financial sector). The new casino’s and entertainment centers represent the largest private-investments Singapore has ever had. The Sand’s, cost USD5.5 billion and Resorts World about USD4.7 billion to build. Marina Bay Sands is expected to generate as much as USD1 billion in annual profits and Resorts World to draw 13 million visitors in the first year. While there is no doubt on the potential of the casinos (recent earnings have surpassed projections), some uncertainty remains on the outside attractions.

According to several officials, those new developments will help Singapore to achieve a target of 17 million visitors a year to Singapore and generate over USD21 billion by 2015; thus increasing the “service” sectors and reducing the impact of “manufacturing” in the economy (note that Singapore does not have any natural resources).

After going through both, indeed “spectacular” attractions, it is clear that the Marina Bay Sands would rather target “corporate events and conventions” (for it stylish look, i.e: white/modern, and meeting facilities), whereas Resorts World is more family oriented (warmer colors, feeling, attractions).

While Singapore’s casinos would essentially compete against China’s “Macau” (which by the way has recently surpassed Las Vegas in gaming revenue), it is quiet unlikely that it will surpass it. Nevertheless, it might in some regard: Marina bay sands is the second most expensive casino in the world (after MGM City Center in Vegas). Additionally, knowing that the “premium-business” operator’s tax rate is 27 % less in Singapore and that the overall gaming area will, for now, be “less” crowded than in Macau; Singapore could become a destination of choice for the “high-rollers”.

In regard to Resorts World, the attractions seem to be well in place towards a bright future. Once Universal Studio will have resolved all its technical problems and open all its attractions, one challenge will persist: all attractions are outside, and it is very HOT ! Queuing for the attractions in a humid and hot (above 30 degrees Celsius) environment is not necessarily convenient and might put the park in jeopardy of losing many visitors (the humidity also damages the attractions over the years; constant maintenance is needed).

With the extension of the Disneyland in Hong Kong and the construction of the one in Shanghai, family oriented attractions are starting to emerge in Asia and is a strong sign of the current boom in the hospitality industry and overall services.

Finally, Singapore now must remain vigilant as there is a high risk that casino’s boost social problems in regards to gaming.