Macau’s Tourism Future: SJM Now Takes Charge of L’Arc Hotel and Casino

Published on December 30, 2025

In a major shift in the tourism and gaming sector, SJM Resorts has finally taken complete control of L’Arc Hotel and Casino in Macau, bringing to an end its status as a satellite casino in Macau. This shift occurred at 2 a.m. on December 30, 2025, as part of SJM Resort’s long-term plan to simplify its business within the Macau Peninsula and increase its share in Macau’s competitive gaming market. The takeover and in-house management of L’Arc Hotel and Casino are set to markedly influence both the tourism and gaming industries in Macau in many ways.

The Strategic Importance of L’Arc Hotel and Casino

Located in the heart of the vibrant Macau Peninsula, L’Arc Hotel and Casino has long been an essential part of the local tourism and gaming scene. Known for its luxurious amenities and prime location, it attracts both local residents and international visitors seeking an authentic Macau experience. The decision to bring L’Arc under direct management by SJM is a strategic one, as it allows the company to better control the guest experience, improve service standards, and integrate the property into SJM’s larger portfolio.

Daisy Ho, managing director of SJM Resorts, highlighted the strategic value of L’Arc due to its prime location in Macau. This acquisition is expected to enhance the overall tourism offerings in the city, making it more appealing to international travelers. By managing L’Arc directly, SJM can leverage its extensive experience in the industry to provide an even more immersive and high-quality experience for visitors, ensuring the property stands out as one of Macau’s leading destinations.

The Impact of the Transition on Macau’s Tourism Sector

The transition of L’Arc Hotel and Casino to direct SJM management has broader implications for Macau’s tourism industry, particularly in the context of the ongoing evolution of the city’s gaming and hospitality sectors. For years, Macau has been known for its bustling gaming industry, attracting millions of visitors annually. However, as competition grows from other global destinations and local economic conditions shift, there has been a growing need for diversification in the city’s tourism offerings.

With L’Arc now part of SJM’s self-operated portfolio, it is expected to bring a new level of consistency and quality to the customer experience. Tourists visiting Macau will now have the assurance that the property is fully integrated into SJM’s portfolio of renowned casinos and hotels, which includes the Grand Lisboa, Crystal Palace, and the newly opened Grand Lisboa Palace. This integration is expected to drive tourism growth, particularly among high-end visitors seeking luxury accommodations and exclusive gaming experiences.

Expanded Gaming Options and Enhanced Visitor Experience

The recent transition also marks the significant expansion of gaming options at L’Arc, which now includes a wider array of gaming tables. The number of tables has increased from just over 40 to 100, a move that will provide more opportunities for guests to enjoy a variety of games and improve the overall guest experience. This expansion reflects SJM’s commitment to enhancing its gaming offerings and staying competitive in the dynamic Macau market.

In addition to the expanded gaming options, the property will also benefit from more personalized services, as SJM can now integrate L’Arc more fully into its broader marketing and operational strategies. For tourists, this means a more seamless experience when booking stays, accessing promotions, or participating in exclusive events and loyalty programs across SJM properties.

Addressing the Challenges of the Satellite Casino System

The decision to end L’Arc’s status as a satellite casino marks the culmination of a three-year transition period in which satellite casinos across Macau have been phased out in favor of direct operation by the six gaming concessionaires. L’Arc is the only satellite casino to successfully transition to a self-operated model under the new regulations, reflecting SJM’s ability to adapt to the changing gaming landscape in Macau.

The closure of other satellite casinos, including the landmark Casino Landmark, highlights the end of an era in Macau’s gaming history. With the closure of these casinos, all remaining gaming operations will fall under the control of one of the six licensed concessionaires, including SJM, which now controls a substantial portion of Macau’s gaming market. The restructuring of the casino industry aims to improve regulatory oversight, enhance operational transparency, and ensure that the benefits of Macau’s gaming industry are better distributed among the major operators.

Employee Transition and Community Impact

As part of the transition, SJM has ensured that the employees of L’Arc will be fully supported. The company has committed to reassigning directly hired staff to other SJM properties, while also offering non-SJM employees priority consideration for available vacancies. The transition plan also includes provisions for safeguarding pay, benefits, and working conditions for the 1,169 employees affected by the closure of the satellite casinos, ensuring a smooth and fair transition for the workforce.

This focus on employee welfare is an important aspect of SJM’s long-term strategy to maintain a stable and motivated workforce, which in turn contributes to a better experience for tourists. SJM’s commitment to job security and fair compensation underscores the company’s recognition of the vital role its employees play in the success of its properties.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Tourism and Gaming in Macau

With the change in management of L’Arc Hotel and Casino to self-management, SJM is poised to continue its pivotal role in Macau’s tourism and gaming industries. SJM’s focus on enhancing its gaming portfolio, customer experience, and support of a sustainable tourism ecosystem is set to ensure continued success in Macau.