Marina Bay Sands: A model for the future of tourism in Thailand?

When the Prime Minister of Thailand Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks about creating an entertainment complex that extends far beyond gaming, it's Marina Bay Sands in Singapore that she returns to as inspiration. And it's easy to see why.

Since its opening in 2010, Marina Bay Sands has become a global landmark – not just for its architecture, but for how it has managed to unite hotels, shopping, culture, restaurants and conferences into a seamless ecosystem. The result? Singapore has strengthened its position as one of the world’s most attractive travel destinations – all year round.

World-class events in the heart of the city

An example of how an entertainment complex can act as an engine for an entire city is the Singapore Grand Prix – the first and most iconic Formula 1 race to be held at night in the heart of the city.

Marina Bay Sands is just a stone's throw from the track and serves as an obvious focal point for VIP guests, concerts, parties and the press center.

Thanks to the hotel's capacity, exhibition halls, sky bar, restaurants and shopping, tourism and events are linked together – and the revenue is spread far beyond the casino itself.

An ecosystem that creates jobs and income

It's easy to think that Marina Bay Sands is just a luxury hotel with a casino – but in reality it's an entire food chain of jobs and businesses, employing thousands of people in service, technology, security, event production, marketing and culture.

Singapore sheep billions in revenue to the treasury every year from the business – without the state paying for the construction. The model is based on private investments that generate both growth and control.

With strict regulations around gambling activities, the country has been able to guarantee responsible gambling, while the big money comes from business, conferences and tourism.

A place to stay, not just visit

Tourists visiting Marina Bay Sands often do more than just stay overnight:

• They visit the ArtScience Museum, go to a show at the Sands Theatre, shop in the luxury mall, eat at world-famous restaurants, take photos of the skyline from SkyPark and relax in the infinity pool.
• And they spread their money across restaurants, taxi rides, attractions and local businesses throughout Singapore.

Exactly what Prime Minister Paetongtarn is referring to when she talks about an ecosystem for many different types of experiences, not just a single attraction.

What does this mean for Thailand?

If Thailand creates something similar to Marina Bay Sands – with a Thai touch and its own character – it could fundamentally change the country's tourism model.

From seasonality and low-price competition – to a year-round destination where visitors stay longer, spend more and create new jobs.

A well-functioning entertainment complex doesn't have to take over a city. Instead, it can be the spark that makes the entire ecosystem blossom.

Also read the entire article series about entertainment complexes and the future of tourism:

• Thailand's vision: A new entertainment complex as an economic engine
• Macau: How an entertainment complex works in practice
• Singapore: Marina Bay Sands and the ecosystem behind its success
• Lessons from the world – risks and failures of entertainment complexes

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Focuszaa, Pixabay, original image