Jamaica’s first two casinos get green light

Finance Minister Peter Phillips confirmed that the approvals position the companies to being the roll out of their integrated resorts.

The local developers were two of five proposals submitted with the Ministry of Finances for three possible integrated resort projects allowed under the country’s Casino Gaming Regulations adopted in 2012. Losing bidders Amaterra Jamaica, Casino Royale and Fiesta Jamaica were rejected for not complying with associated bidding fees.

Both projects need to develop the first 1,000 rooms under the first phase of an eventual minimum 2,000-room complex before applying to the Casino Gaming Commission for a gaming license. Harmony Cove and Celebration Jamaica were eagerly awaiting the provisional orders, which came some 19 months after the bids were open, indicating they will move ahead with construction right away.

A partnership between state-owned Harmonisation Limited and global investment company Tavistock Group, Harmony Cove will cost US$970m for the first phase alone. Plans for the final project comprise 2,500 total acres and call for five hotels with up to 5,000 rooms, two PGA golf courses, 450 residential units, a 300-boat slip marina, a dedicated private airport and world-class casino.

Celebration Jamaica plans a slightly more modest complex costing an estimated US$500m for the initial phase. Located in Montego Bay, plans for the complex feature a hotel, state-of-the-art entertainment facilities, bars, restaurants, retail space and a 75,000 square foot casino and sports book.