MGM Macau and MGM COTAI focuses on China, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Southeast Asia Hospitality Sector

Published on September 13, 2024

By: Tuhin Sarkar

MGM Macau, often referred to as the “Monte Carlo of the East,” is a premier luxury resort and entertainment destination located in the heart of Macau. Known for its world-class hospitality, MGM Macau offers an unparalleled experience that blends the opulence of modern luxury with Macau’s rich cultural heritage. The resort is a key player in the city’s thriving tourism industry, attracting high-end leisure travelers, business professionals, and those seeking vibrant entertainment.

MGM Macau boasts luxurious accommodations, featuring elegantly designed rooms and suites with stunning views of the city and waterfront. The resort offers an array of dining options, from fine dining restaurants serving international cuisines to local favorites that highlight Macau’s unique culinary heritage—a fusion of Portuguese and Chinese influences. The property’s gastronomic offerings make it a top destination for food lovers from around the world.

Apart from its culinary excellence, MGM Macau is renowned for its world-class entertainment and gaming facilities, rivaling those in Las Vegas. The resort is home to a sprawling casino, high-end retail outlets, and numerous art installations, making it a cultural and entertainment hub in the region.

MGM Macau also caters to the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market, providing state-of-the-art facilities for corporate events, conventions, and weddings. Its strategic location and sophisticated infrastructure make it a preferred destination for large-scale gatherings.

Sustainability is a core focus at MGM Macau, with eco-friendly initiatives integrated into its operations, such as energy conservation and waste reduction programs. The resort’s commitment to environmental responsibility positions it as a leader in sustainable luxury tourism.

With its unique combination of luxury, culture, and entertainment, MGM Macau remains one of the most sought-after destinations in Asia, offering an unforgettable experience for global travelers.

At the 2024 PATA Travel Mart held in Bangkok, we had the privilege of speaking with Cindy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Sales, The MGM Macau and MGM COTAI. She shed light on the latest offerings at MGM Macau and MGM Cotai, as well as the target markets they are focusing on, especially as they look to further expand into international markets. Macau, often referred to as the “Monte Carlo of the East,” is renowned for its vibrant casino industry, world-class entertainment, and rich heritage. As Cindy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Sales, The MGM Macau and MGM COTAI explains, MGM Macau not only caters to luxury-seeking travelers but also emphasizes cultural and gastronomic experiences for global visitors.

A Unique Combination: Heritage and Entertainment

Cindy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Sales, The MGM Macau and MGM COTAI begins by highlighting the allure of Macau, describing it as “the Monte Carlo of the East” and “the Las Vegas of the East.” While many travelers come to Macau for its entertainment and vibrant nightlife, indy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Sales, The MGM Macau and MGM COTAI emphasizes that MGM Macau offers more than just luxury accommodations and world-class casinos. The region is also home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, including historic temples, churches, and fortresses, reflecting a blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture.

For food lovers, MGM Macau offers a unique gastronomic experience by combining traditional Portuguese and Chinese cuisines. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies alongside international culinary offerings, making Macau a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of culture and luxury. Cindi notes that the combination of these attractions makes MGM Macau a destination for both entertainment and cultural tourism.

MGM Macau’s Value-Added Services

Cindi was excited to share the new value-added services MGM Macau has introduced. In response to shifting travel trends and customer expectations, MGM Macau is continuously evolving its offerings to ensure that guests experience the ultimate in luxury and convenience. These services include personalized guest experiences, luxury wellness programs, and customized event planning for corporate clients and leisure travelers alike.

The property also places a heavy emphasis on sustainable tourism, ensuring that environmental responsibility is at the core of its business model. With a focus on eco-friendly practices, MGM Macau is implementing initiatives to reduce plastic use and conserve resources, making the resort a forward-thinking player in the luxury hospitality industry.

PATA Travel Mart 2024: A Perfect Platform

Discussing the importance of PATA Travel Mart, Cindy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Sales, The MGM Macau and MGM COTAI highlights the significance of the event as a prime opportunity to connect with international buyers and travel industry professionals. “It is a great meeting place where we can connect to people, understand the latest industry trends, and adapt to changing environments,” she says. The event provides a platform for MGM Macau to showcase its property to new and existing partners, enabling them to expand their reach across different travel markets.

This year’s PATA Travel Mart has been especially important for Cindi and her team as they work to strengthen ties with global partners and attract new clientele from emerging markets. The opportunity to meet face-to-face with international buyers, as well as catch up with industry colleagues, has been invaluable in shaping MGM Macau’s business strategies for the coming years.

Target Markets and Focus on MICE Tourism

MGM Macau is keenly focused on diversifying its customer base, particularly in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment. According to Cindy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Sales, The MGM Macau and MGM COTAI, MGM Macau is targeting both leisure and business travelers, with a strong emphasis on MICE. The property’s state-of-the-art facilities and customized event solutions have made it a preferred choice for corporate events, weddings, and large gatherings.

In terms of geographical markets, MGM Macau is targeting travelers from China, Hong Kong, and South Korea. As Cindi explains, these are the strongest markets for the property, with China leading in terms of arrivals. South Korea, in particular, is showing strong recovery post-pandemic, and the team is keen to further tap into the growing interest from this market.

Other key markets include Southeast Asia, particularly from countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, which have shown growing interest in Macau’s luxury offerings. The property is also making efforts to attract Indian travelers, who are increasingly looking for high-end experiences and family-friendly vacations.

Expanding Market Segments

MGM Macau is also expanding its focus on long-haul markets, aiming to attract visitors from Europe and beyond. With its unique mix of entertainment, cultural heritage, and luxury hospitality, MGM Macau appeals to a diverse range of tourists, from high-end leisure travelers to corporate clients. According to Cindy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Sales, The MGM Macau and MGM COTAI long-haul markets such as the UK and Germany are equally important as they contribute to the property’s sustained growth in international tourism.

Conclusion

MGM Macau continues to solidify its position as a leading luxury destination in Asia, with an emphasis on blending entertainment, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism practices. Through its participation in PATA Travel Mart 2024, MGM Macau is strengthening its relationships with international buyers and expanding its reach into key markets, including China, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Southeast Asia.

As Cindy, the Marketing Sales Head, explains, MGM Macau is committed to providing exceptional value to its guests, whether through its luxury accommodations, world-class dining experiences, or innovative sustainability initiatives. With an eye on the future, MGM Macau is well-positioned to capture the interest of global travelers and offer unforgettable experiences that cater to both business and leisure markets.

PATA Travel Mart is one of the leading travel trade events in the Asia-Pacific region, organized annually by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). It brings together travel professionals, tourism boards, and businesses from across the globe to showcase destinations, services, and products. The event fosters business-to-business networking, helping tourism professionals connect with potential partners, expand their market reach, and explore emerging trends in the travel industry.

PATA Travel Mart 2024 also hosts insightful sessions on topics like sustainable tourism, digital transformation, and the future of travel. Exhibitors, buyers, and sellers from various sectors—hospitality, aviation, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), and more—participate in this key event to generate new business opportunities. PATA Travel Mart 2024 continues to be a significant platform for shaping the future of the travel and tourism industry in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.