Impact of Casino Closures on Macau’s Tourism and Travel Plans, Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 29, 2025

The final year of 2025 represents a dramatic turn in Macau’s gambling industry, as the satellite casino deadline expires. The government of Macau has taken important steps with regard to slot parlor operations in Melco Resorts (Macau) S.A. As one of the largest slot parlor operations closes, Mocha Hotel Royal, and three more, Mocha Golden Dragon, Mocha Inner Harbour, and Mocha Hotel Sintra, continue, this new turn of events looks to impact not only Macau but also foreign tourists planning travel to this location.

Government Approval for Continued Operations of Three Melco Slot Parlours

In a statement released by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), the gaming regulator confirmed that three Mocha-branded slot parlours will remain operational beyond the expiration of the satellite casino transition period. These venues, which have long catered to both local residents and tourists, will stay open under a management company engaged by Melco.

Effective January 1, 2026, the Mocha Golden Dragon, Mocha Inner Harbour, and Mocha Hotel Sintra slot-machine parlours will continue to operate, providing visitors with familiar gaming experiences. The move ensures that the venues can continue contributing to the local economy and offer a stable environment for their employees.

Crucially, the DICJ also confirmed that these changes would not disrupt the labor relationships between the staff and Melco. Employees at the three continuing venues will maintain their current positions, which is a relief for many who rely on the gaming industry for employment in Macau.

Mocha Hotel Royal Shuts Its Doors

In contrast, the Mocha Hotel Royal, a popular slot parlour operating under Melco’s concession, closed its doors permanently on the night of December 28, 2025. The gaming regulator coordinated the shutdown, overseeing the removal of gaming equipment and ensuring that all legal procedures were followed.

The closure of Mocha Hotel Royal will affect not only the gaming industry but also tourism in the region. With fewer gaming venues available, the casino landscape in Macau is slowly evolving. For tourists who frequent the hotel’s gaming facilities, the closure marks the loss of a well-established gaming hub.

In addition to the venue shutdown, the Labour Affairs Bureau was on-site to support the affected employees, offering assistance and a hotline for inquiries. The police maintained order throughout the closure process, which was executed with careful attention to legal compliance and the welfare of those involved.

Macau’s Transition Away from Satellite Casinos

The transition of satellite casinos into wholly-owned operations under Macau’s new gaming law is a pivotal moment for the region. The government had previously granted these casinos a three-year period to shift toward this new arrangement. The satellite casino model, which allowed gaming operations under the licenses of major concessionaires, has now come to an end.

Macau’s gaming concessions have been reorganized, and only a few casinos remain under the satellite model. Among them is L’Arc Casino, which will continue operating under the management of SJM Resorts starting December 30, 2025. This makes L’Arc the only satellite casino to have successfully navigated the transition to direct management by its concessionaire.

The closing of Mocha Hotel Royal and the eventual shutdown of Casino Landmark on December 30 are stark reminders of the changing times in Macau’s casino industry. These closures signify the government’s push to streamline operations and maintain a healthier and more sustainable gaming environment for both the industry and tourists.

Impact on Tourism and Travel to Macau

The closure of Mocha Hotel Royal and the continuation of some Melco slot parlours may have mixed implications for travelers. For tourists who come to Macau for its casinos, the overall availability of gaming venues is shrinking. However, those who enjoy slot parlours may find the remaining Mocha venues an appealing option for their gaming needs.

As the satellite casinos phase out, the gaming scene will shift toward a more centralized structure, with fewer but larger venues continuing to operate. The new regulations also promise greater integration between gaming operators and local authorities, which could improve overall tourist experiences and ensure better quality services at the remaining casinos.

For those planning to visit Macau in 2026 and beyond, the landscape of available casinos will look very different. Tourists will need to adjust their expectations, particularly if they frequent the smaller, more accessible slot parlours that were previously part of the satellite casino network.

The Bigger Picture for Macau’s Gaming Industry

Macau’s gaming industry has long been a major draw for international visitors, and these changes will likely shape the tourism experience in the region. As the gaming landscape evolves with the closure of several smaller casinos, the government is focused on ensuring the overall health and sustainability of the industry. By reducing the number of satellite casinos, Macau aims to bring more accountability and oversight to the sector, which could result in a better-managed experience for both visitors and operators.

The DICJ’s emphasis on “healthy and orderly development” will likely drive the continued attraction of international tourists, who may find themselves visiting the larger, more prominent casinos that continue to operate under direct management. While some smaller venues close their doors, the continued growth and regulation of the industry could lead to a more sustainable future for Macau’s tourism.

What This Means for Tourists

The future closures and continued operation of selective slot parlors demonstrate the dynamic development of Macau’s gaming industry. As smaller gaming outlets, Mocha Hotel Royal included, close their doors, travelers will have to adapt their itineraries accordingly. This trend of having the gaming concessions manage these gaming activities directly may result in a more organized scenario, where fewer, larger, and better-regulated gaming outlets will be accessible to travelers.