Gambling in Singapore

History of Gambling in Singapore

First, gambling was legalized in Singapore in 1823, when the country was a British colony. However, this permission only operated for about three years. After that, all casino games were banned again. The only exception was the state lottery, Singapore Pools.

In recent years, with the rapid development of tourism in the region, the Singapore authorities have revised their attitude towards gambling. In 2005 the government decided to build two resorts and casinos.

Best Singapore Casinos

This is how Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island and Marina Bay Sands on the Marina Bay coast were established.

They are ranked third and second in the world for the most expensive casinos.

Sentosa Island was a military outpost and an essential strategic asset in Singapore's military ambitions for a long time. Only in the 80s of the 20th century did the government turn it into a popular resort. Marina Bay, situated on the southern coast of Singapore, is both picturesque and well-suited for tourism development.

The decision to legalize gambling and construct the above hotel-casinos was not easy for the authorities.

Representatives of both Christian and Muslim churches, as well as many social workers, were tough against allowing gambling, pointing to their negative impact on society.

They predicted an increase in organized crime, the growth of pawnshops, and money laundering, among other things.

In turn, the government highlighted the necessity of taking such risks, as they significantly contribute to tourism development in Singapore and enable it to compete with neighboring countries. Whatever it was, the decision to legalize casinos was approved.

Marina Bay Sands Casino

Marina Bay Sands was constructed by Las Vegas Sands, which won the tender. Moshe Safdie developed the design of the complex.

The hotel features three towers connected by the expansive Sands Sky Park, which includes a pool and an overlook. There is also a lotus-shaped museum on the rooftop.

Marina Bay Sands costs approximately $5.5 billion.

Resorts World Sentosa

The owner of Resorts World Sentosa is a consortium that includes Genting Singapore, Star Cruises, and Universal Studios.

Besides the casino and hotel, the complex includes an amusement park – Universal Studios Singapore, Marina Life Park featuring the world's largest oceanarium, Maritime Xperimental Museum, and many other entertainment centers.

The estimated cost is $4.5 billion.

Singapore Gambling Laws and Regulations

However, certain restrictions apply to casino visiting for Singapore citizens and permanent residents of the country. They have to pay a separate fee to visit the casinos.

It is $100 per night paid separately for each casino. However, you can pay an annual fee of $2,000.

The government strictly enforces these laws. Resorts World Sentosa Casino was fined $530,000 for refunding the fee to invited reporters not long ago.