Melco Invests $125M to Revamp Countdown Hotel in Macau
Melco Resorts & Entertainment is investing US$125 million to revamp the Countdown Hotel at City of Dreams, Cotai, Macau, turning it into a high-end all-suite property. The announcement came during the company’s Q3 2025 earnings call, reinforcing Melco’s focus on premium hospitality and gaming experiences.
Countdown Hotel Upgrade
The property currently has 330 standard rooms but will be redesigned into approximately 150 luxury suites, each over 1,000 sq ft. CFO Geoffrey Davis confirmed that construction is underway, with completion targeted for Q3 2026. CEO Lawrence Ho described the renovation as central to enhancing the overall guest experience, alongside plans to modernize retail and dining areas.
Enhanced Guest Experiences
The initiative aligns with Melco’s broader strategy to attract high-value guests. July saw the launch of the Signature Clubhouse, a premium mass-gaming space featuring private salons, entertainment like a Formula One simulator and bespoke services. A new 15-table gaming zone near the LRT station has opened, targeting walk-in visitors with accessible minimums and showing promising patronage growth.
Studio City, Cotai, also received high-end enhancements, including an expanded high-limit area and four private gaming salons in the Epic Tower. These upgrades reinforce the company’s commitment to luxury gaming and elite customer engagement.
Financial Discipline and Dividends
Davis noted Melco’s progress in reducing pandemic-era debt and emphasized careful allocation of free cash flow. The company plans to resume quarterly dividends by late 2026, signaling confidence in financial stability and growth potential.
Strategic Review of City of Dreams Manila
Melco is finalizing its strategic review of City of Dreams Manila, expected to conclude by the end of 2025. The process is focused on optimizing financial outcomes, including potential one-time debt reduction, without signaling a full exit from the Philippine market.
Positioning for Long-Term Growth
The Countdown Hotel renovation and broader property enhancements showcase Melco’s commitment to boosting guest satisfaction, premium offerings and market competitiveness. These strategic investments aim to capture rising demand in Macau’s leisure and gaming sectors while driving long-term shareholder value.
