Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands has welcomed over 500 million visitors since its opening in 2010. The iconic integrated resort remains a major attraction in the city.
Marina Bay Sands (MBS), one of Singapore’s two multibillion-dollar integrated resorts, first opened in 2010.
In a recent social media post, MBS described reaching the 500-million visitor milestone as a "landmark occasion," highlighting its commitment to transforming the property and enhancing guest experiences. The resort also noted that over 1.2 million people attended MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events at the venue in 2024.
MBS reported "exceptional performance" for the year, achieving record-breaking financial results. According to its LinkedIn post, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) exceeded US$2 billion for the first time.
Designed by Moshe Safdie, the resort is known for its striking architecture that shapes Singapore’s skyline. It recently completed a $1.75 billion renovation as part of a broader $9 billion upgrade required under its gaming concession agreement with the Singapore government. By 2030, MBS plans to add a luxury hotel featuring VIP “sky gaming,” a 15,000-seat concert arena, and expanded convention facilities.
MBS is operated by Las Vegas Sands. Its main competitor, Resorts World Sentosa—owned by Genting Singapore—is undergoing a $6.8 billion redevelopment.
Stoking a tourism boom
Renovation projects are boosting tourism in Singapore. By September 2024, the country welcomed 16.5 million visitors—a 21% increase from 2023. Tourist spending reached $16.6 billion (S$22.4 billion/£13.3 billion/€16 billion), a 10% rise from the previous year and a new record.
Melissa Ow, CEO of the Singapore Tourism Board, described the strong performance as “an affirmation of the industry’s efforts in refreshing our products and experiences.” She added that these initiatives have enhanced Singapore’s appeal and strengthened the tourism sector’s capabilities and competitiveness.
Mainland China remained the largest source of visitors, followed by India, Indonesia, and Australia. Other growing markets included Japan, Taiwan, the UK, and the US.
Singapore looks to a banner 2025
Tourism officials anticipate even stronger results in 2025.
According to the Singapore Tourism Analytic Network, the country is expected to welcome between 17 million and 18.5 million international visitors this year, with projected spending reaching up to S$30.5 billion.
While acknowledging "potential headwinds from geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic challenges," officials remain committed to "driving quality tourism growth."
