Macao Confirms Sites for International Cultural and Tourism Zone, Featuring Three Major Venues

Macao Unveils Strategic Locations for Major Cultural Development

Macao has officially confirmed the preliminary site selections for its ambitious international integrated cultural and tourism zone, a landmark project designed to significantly enhance the region's cultural offerings and drive economic diversification. The announcement, made on November 13-14, 2025, outlines plans for three major cultural venues to be developed across two strategic locations within the city.

The proposed zone is a key initiative in Macao's broader strategy to reposition itself as a global center for cultural exchange and innovative tourism, moving beyond its traditional gaming-centric economy.

Three Landmark Venues Detailed

The integrated cultural and tourism zone will feature three distinct, high-profile venues:

• The Macau National Museum of Culture: Envisioned as the city's largest museum, with a planned construction area of 80,000 to 100,000 square meters, it will focus on showcasing Sino-Western cultural exchange, Macao's unique heritage, and significant historical relics of Chinese civilization.
• The Macau International Performing Arts Center: This facility, with a proposed area of 55,000 to 65,000 square meters, is intended to be an international platform for performances, creation, collaboration, and training for artists and institutions.
• The International Museum of Contemporary Art: Spanning 35,000 to 45,000 square meters, this museum will concentrate on art collection, research, exhibitions, and education, supporting talent development and international art exchange.

Dual-Site Strategy for Optimal Integration

Following comprehensive assessments, including those conducted by the China Tourism Academy, a two-site combination has been recommended for the development. The Macau National Museum of Culture is tentatively planned for the coastal area east of the Macau Tower. Meanwhile, the Macau International Performing Arts Center and the International Museum of Contemporary Art are designated for New Urban Zone Area C.

This dual-site approach was chosen because no single available parcel, apart from the former Macau Jockey Club land which did not materialize, could accommodate all three venues. The selected locations, facing each other across the channel, allow for 'unified regional planning and visual connectivity' that enhances the district's cultural landscape, as explained by Dai Bin, director of the China Tourism Academy.

Economic Impact and Public Engagement

The project, initially revealed by Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai in April, is estimated to require an investment of approximately MOP12 billion (US$1.5 billion). It is expected to create numerous employment opportunities and establish a comprehensive talent cultivation system for the cultural sector.

A public consultation period for the development plans commenced on November 13 and will run until December 26. The government has expressed its commitment to gathering public input, with the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Ao Lam, emphasizing the importance of community engagement.