Wave of Shutdowns Hits Macau: Thousands of Casino Jobs on the Line as Operators Axe Satellite Venues in 2025
Macau’s casino giants shutter satellite venues, shifting business models and reshaping jobs amid 2025 gaming law changes.
• Over 11 satellite casinos in Macau set to close by end-2025
• Up to 6,000 jobs affected citywide
• Satellite casinos historically earned 55-57% of gross gaming revenue
• New laws require satellites to shift to management fee models
As Macau gears up for radical change, its world-famous casino skyline is bracing for a transformation not seen in decades. Major gaming operators — Melco Resorts, Galaxy Entertainment, and SJM Holdings — have confirmed a sweeping exit from dozens of so-called “satellite casinos,” with most venues set to close their doors before the close of 2025. These moves come in direct response to sweeping government reforms and a new wave of business demands rolling out across Asia’s gambling capital.
Players and employees alike now face an uncertain future, with thousands of jobs and millions in revenue hanging in the balance.
Why Are Macau’s Satellite Casinos Closing?
The shutdown wave is rooted in a 2022 overhaul of Macau’s gaming laws. Officials ordered all satellite casinos — those run under the license of a major operator but managed separately — to completely shift business models. The old profit-sharing arrangements, where satellites took home over half of gross gaming revenue, are being phased out.
Instead, all satellites must transition to a structure where licensees directly own and control casino operations. Survival now hinges on earning management fees, not shared revenue.
Learn more about Macau’s new gaming framework at the Macau Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau.
Which Casinos Are Shutting Down?
Melco Resorts announced closures at its Grand Dragon Casino and three Mocha Club slot lounges. Only Mocha Inner Harbour, Mocha Hotel Sintra, and Mocha Golden Dragon may survive, pending regulatory approval.
Over at Galaxy Entertainment, Waldo Casino is set to bow out, its closure chalked up to “commercial considerations.” Workers affected by these moves will reportedly be shifted to other properties within the parent companies’ portfolios.
SJM Holdings leads the charge with plans to close seven out of nine satellites, including Casa Real, Emperor Palace, Fortuna, Grandview, Kam Pek Paradise, Landmark, and Legend Palace. Only Ponte 16 and L’Arc Macau may remain, transitioning to direct management.
What Happens to Impacted Casino Employees?
The fallout could be massive, with up to 6,000 jobs affected across 11 casinos. However, all three operators have pledged to reassign or absorb employees elsewhere in their Macau portfolios. Local officials from the Labour Affairs Bureau vow close oversight to ensure these transition promises are kept.
For industry news, visit the official Macau Government Tourism Office.
How Will Gambling Change in Macau?
Industry analysts predict a slimmer, more tightly regulated market. Satellites that do survive will run on thinner margins, collecting only management fees. Some experts foresee these fees increasing to keep pace with inflation, but the days of profit-heavy satellite operations are over.
Meanwhile, major concessionaires are acquiring strategic properties, bringing them directly under their management umbrella. The shake-up is part of Macau’s bid to stay globally competitive and align with new regulatory norms, echoing strategies from global powerhouses like MGM Resorts and Wynn Resorts.
FAQ: Macau Casino Closures 2025
Q: Which casinos will close?
A: Over 11 satellite casinos, including venues run by Melco, Galaxy, and SJM.
Q: Are jobs going away?
A: Up to 6,000 roles may be impacted, but operators promise internal transfers.
Q: Why is this happening?
A: A government-mandated business model shift requiring satellites to operate on management fee structures only.
Q: Will Macau remain a gaming hub?
A: Yes — analysts expect fewer, but more robust, directly managed casinos.
How to Prepare: Next Steps for Casino Employees
1. Get updates from your HR department on transfer opportunities.
2. Stay informed via Macau’s Labour Affairs Bureau and local news.
3. Consider upskilling or retraining — the gaming industry is evolving.
4. Monitor casino operator news releases for the latest announcements.
Stay Alert and Plan Ahead!
The next 18 months will see rapid changes ripple through Macau’s casino sector. Whether you’re a casino worker, industry partner, or gaming enthusiast, now is the time to follow developments closely, explore new job pathways, and stay ahead of the curve.
2025 Macau Satellite Casino Closures: Action Checklist
- Monitor official operator and government updates
- Explore reassignment or retraining options
- Stay connected with labour support agencies
- Watch for new casino openings and industry job fairs
Stay tuned — the game in Macau is changing, and opportunity awaits those who act.
