MGM Osaka IR to Hire 12,000 as $12B Project Begins

MGM Resorts International is set to hire around 12,000 staff for its upcoming integrated resort in Osaka, highlighting the project’s massive scale and anticipated economic boost. CEO William Hornbuckle revealed details at a recent U.S. licensing hearing, providing a first look at the Yumeshima Island development.

Japan’s Largest Casino Investment
Valued at $12 billion, the Osaka IR is MGM’s biggest Asian project and a strategic entry into Japan’s emerging gaming sector. Construction has officially begun after nearly 20 years of planning and regulatory navigation. Hornbuckle described it as one of the world’s largest single-operator casino projects, requiring a workforce of unprecedented size.

Drawing from Singapore’s IR Blueprint
MGM is modeling the resort after Singapore’s integrated resorts, emphasizing a balance of entertainment, operational efficiency and responsible gaming. The Singapore approach serves as both a roadmap and benchmark for Japan’s evolving casino landscape.

A Destination for Tourism and Business
The Osaka IR is expected to open in Q3 2030. It will feature luxury hotels, upscale retail, fine dining, theaters and a full entertainment ecosystem. Positioned near the 2025 World Expo site, the resort is projected to attract 20 million visitors annually, boosting regional tourism and supporting local businesses.

Economic Scale and Impact
With a projected construction cost of JPY1.27 trillion (~US$8.1 billion), analysts estimate the resort could contribute roughly JPY1 trillion (~US$6.4 billion) to the Osaka economy over ten years via jobs, tourism spending and growth in ancillary sectors.

A Transformative Moment for Japan’s Gaming Market
The Osaka IR sets a new standard for integrated resorts in Japan, promising vast employment opportunities and establishing a landmark cultural and economic destination. MGM’s project signals a pivotal evolution in the country’s gaming and tourism industries.