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

Strategic Site Selection Announced

Macao has officially confirmed the preliminary site selections for its International Integrated Tourism and Cultural District, a significant step in the region's economic diversification strategy. The ambitious project will encompass three major cultural venues, strategically located across two key areas: the coastal area east of the Macau Tower and New Urban Zone Area C. This announcement was made as the government unveiled detailed development plans, initiating a public consultation period from November 13 to December 26, 2025.

The selected sites, facing each other across a channel, were chosen for their proximity, allowing for unified regional planning and visual connectivity, which is expected to enhance the district's cultural landscape. Both areas already benefit from strong tourism resources and high visitor traffic, aiming to complement existing leisure spaces.

Three Landmark Cultural Venues

The integrated cultural and tourism zone will host three distinct, world-class facilities, each designed to bolster Macao's cultural offerings and attract international visitors:

• Macau National Museum of Culture: This institution is tentatively planned for the coastal area east of the Macau Tower. With a proposed construction area of 80,000 to 100,000 square meters, it is set to become the city's largest museum. Its mission includes showcasing representative artifacts of Sino-Western cultural exchange, Macao's unique cultural heritage, and significant historical relics of Chinese civilization.
• Macau International Performing Arts Center: Designated for the western side of New Urban Zone Area C, this center will feature a planned construction area of 55,000 to 65,000 square meters. It is envisioned as an international, integrated platform for performances, providing space for creation, collaboration, and training for performing arts institutions and artists.
• International Museum of Contemporary Art: Located on the eastern side of New Urban Zone Area C, this museum will have a construction area of 35,000 to 45,000 square meters. Its focus will be on art collection, research, exhibitions, and education, supporting talent development and international art exchange through contemporary art exhibitions and immersive experiences.

Economic Diversification and Investment

The development of the International Integrated Tourism and Cultural District is a cornerstone of Macao's broader strategy for economic diversification, aiming to reduce its reliance on the gaming industry. Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai first revealed the concept in April, with the project estimated to require an investment of MOP12 billion (US$1.5 billion). The initiative is expected to create numerous employment opportunities, both during the construction phase and upon the facilities' operation.

The China Tourism Academy, under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Data Center, conducted specialized research that informed the concept proposal and site recommendations. This project aligns with the government's long-term vision to establish Macao as a global center for cultural exchange and innovative tourism.