MGM Resorts International, a major player in the global casino industry, is further solidifying its international reach with the recent inauguration of MGM Shenzhen. This luxurious beachside hotel and resort, located in the scenic Yantian District near Mirs Bay, marks another milestone for the Las Vegas-based corporation.

A glimpse of MGM Shenzhen

The opulent MGM Shenzhen offers a lavish experience for guests with its 321 rooms and suites, each providing stunning sea views. The resort is also equipped with an array of amenities, including several upscale bars and restaurants, expansive event and meeting spaces, and a theater, which is currently hosting a spectacular production a'la Cirque du Soleil titled the M Show. Families are well-catered for with a dedicated kids club, while guests seeking relaxation can enjoy both outdoor and indoor heated pools as well as a fitness center and full-service spa.

MGM Shenzhen is the result of a partnership between Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality, a joint venture owned by Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, from China, and MGM Resorts International. This collaboration reflects a strong and strategic move by MGM to leverage local partnerships to enhance its presence in the region.

Gambling restrictions and connectivity challenges

Despite MGM's extensive portfolio in the gambling sector, promoting such activities in mainland China is currently prohibited. As a result, MGM Shenzhen does not advertise the casinos at its Macau resorts. Although the Yantian District is only about 50 air miles from Macau, the journey between these locations is far from straightforward. Without a pass for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, travelers face a three-hour drive circumventing the Pearl River.

MGM Resorts operates through MGM China Holdings, its subsidiary and one of the six casino operators located in Macau - the only region under Chinese jurisdiction where casino gambling is permitted. Nevertheless, MGM has cultivated strong brand recognition not just in Macau but also across the mainland. Following the opening of MGM Shenzhen, for instance, Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality now manages six MGM-branded hotels in mainland China.

Other properties in this portfolio include Mhub by MGM Nanjing Jiangning, MGM Grand Saya, MGM Shanghai West Bund, MGM Qingdao, and the Bellagio in Shanghai. The Bellagio Shanghai, inspired by MGM's iconic Las Vegas property of the same name, is renowned for its captivating water fountains.

Prospects for MGM in the coming years

MGM Resorts' ambitions do not stop with these six hotels. The company announced in March that the upcoming Mirage at the MGM Shanghai, a boutique hotel with 205 guestrooms, is set to occupy one of the two leisure and commercial towers being developed by Tishman Speyer, a premier real estate developer. Scheduled to open in 2027, this project exemplifies MGM's commitment to expanding its footprint in China.

Interestingly, MGM Resorts retained The Mirage brand despite selling the operating rights to the original Las Vegas property in the end of 2022 for almost $1.1 billion to the Seminole Tribe, which is converting the venue into a Hard Rock-themed resort and hotel.

Diaoyutai MGM Hospitality is also preparing to launch additional MGM-branded hotels in Hainan, Wuhan, and Yalong Bay, indicating that MGM Resorts International is far from reaching the zenith of its expansion. These numerous developments showcase the company's strategic focus on broadening its international presence while continuing to offer luxurious, high-quality experiences to its guests.

MGM Resorts International's latest venture, MGM Shenzhen, shows the company's dedication to expanding its global portfolio. Through strategic partnerships and careful planning, MGM is not only enhancing its brand presence but also setting new standards in luxury hospitality across the globe.