Macao Confirms Preliminary Sites for International Integrated Cultural and Tourism Zone

Macao Advances Major Cultural Tourism Initiative

Macao has officially confirmed the preliminary site selection for its International Integrated Tourism and Cultural District, a significant step in the region's strategy to diversify its economy beyond gaming. The ambitious project will feature three major cultural venues, aiming to establish Macao as a global center for cultural exchange and innovative tourism. The announcement follows extensive research and planning, with the government initiating a public consultation period from November 13 to December 26 to gather feedback on the proposal.

Strategic Site Selection and Key Venues

The chosen sites for the district are the coastal area east of the Macau Tower and New Urban Zone Area C. This two-site approach was recommended by the China Tourism Academy, under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Data Center, as no single parcel (excluding the former Macau Jockey Club land, which was considered) could adequately accommodate all three planned facilities. The proximity of these two locations across a channel allows for 'unified regional planning and visual connectivity' that enhances the district's cultural landscape, according to Dai Bin, director of the China Tourism Academy.

The three landmark venues include:

• Macau National Museum of Culture: Tentatively planned for the coastal area east of the Macau Tower, this will be 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 heritage, and significant historical relics of Chinese civilization.
• Macau International Performing Arts Center: Proposed for the western side of New Urban Zone Area C, this center will span 55,000 to 65,000 square meters. It is envisioned as an international, integrated platform for performances, creation, and training for performing arts institutions and artists.
• International Museum of Contemporary Art: Suggested for the eastern side of New Urban Zone Area C, with a construction area of 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.

Economic Diversification and Future Vision

The project, estimated to require an investment of approximately MOP12 billion (US$1.5 billion), is a cornerstone of Macao's broader economic diversification strategy. Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai first revealed the idea in April 2025, emphasizing the creation of 'iconic and high-standard' cultural facilities. The initiative aligns with the government's '1+4' industries diversified development strategy and the 'Macao Tourism Industry Development Master Plan', aiming to create a dynamic synergy between heritage, art, and performance. Officials anticipate the project will generate significant employment opportunities, including hundreds of jobs during construction and around 500 permanent positions once operational. Deland Leong, president of the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC), stated the aspiration 'to establish a complete and sustainable cultural industry ecosystem.'