15-11-2024 (SINGAPORE) A groundbreaking ceremony today marked the commencement of an ambitious redevelopment project that will dramatically reshape Sentosa’s skyline by 2030. The centrepiece of this transformation will be a striking new waterfront complex at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), featuring an innovative vertical garden concept and a spectacular illuminated tower.
The $6.8 billion initiative, spearheaded by Genting Singapore, introduces a remarkable 88-metre-high mountain trail experience, setting new standards for architectural innovation in Southeast Asia. This development represents a significant expansion of RWS’s current footprint, with plans to increase the resort’s total area by 50 percent, adding more than 164,000 square metres of new facilities.
Two new luxury hotels, bringing 700 additional rooms, will complement the existing portfolio of six prestigious establishments, including the renowned Crockfords Tower and Hotel Michael. The expanded accommodation offering reflects Singapore’s growing ambitions in the premium tourism sector.
The initial phase of this massive undertaking, which began in early 2022, emphasises non-gaming attractions. Visitors will soon experience the highly anticipated Harry Potter: Visions of Magic exhibition, launching this month. This will be followed by the inauguration of Minion Land at Universal Studios Singapore in early 2025, alongside the impressive Singapore Oceanarium, which promises to triple the size of the current S.E.A. Aquarium.
Speaking at the ceremony, Trade and Industry Minister of State Alvin Tan emphasised Singapore’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in global tourism. “This development reinforces our position as a premier destination for both leisure and business travellers,” Tan noted.
RWS Chief Executive Tan Hee Teck highlighted the project’s strong environmental credentials. The development targets the prestigious Building and Construction Authority’s Green Mark Platinum certification, incorporating innovative sustainable building practices. The use of low-carbon concrete alone is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 29,500 tonnes.
The development’s architectural highlight will be a striking illuminated sculpture, designed by the acclaimed Heatherwick Studio, known for their iconic Vessel structure in New York. This installation will anchor a vibrant waterfront promenade featuring retail and entertainment venues across four levels.
This expansion comes as Singapore’s tourism sector shows robust recovery, with visitor numbers approaching 14 million by October 2024. The city-state anticipates tourism receipts between $27.5 billion and $29 billion for the year, potentially setting new records for the industry.
