Grand Dragon Casino and three Mocha Clubs to wind down; no job cuts expected
Melco Resorts & Entertainment has announced the closure of four Macau gaming venues by the end of 2025 as part of a strategic realignment of its operations. The move, disclosed via a press release, will affect Grand Dragon Casino, Mocha Hotel Royal, Mocha Kuong Fat, and Mocha Grand Dragon Hotel. All venues are operated under Melco’s satellite and slot-club network in the region.
This decision reflects the company’s ongoing development strategy and aligns with regulatory frameworks established by the Macau SAR Government. While the closures mark a significant operational shift, Melco has assured that no job losses will result from the consolidation.
Staff Redeployment Across Properties
In a reassuring move for its workforce, Melco confirmed that employees from the affected venues will be redeployed across its other Macau properties, including flagship resorts such as City of Dreams and Studio City. The company further clarified that job roles, responsibilities, and salaries will remain unchanged following the transition.
In addition to personnel reassignment, Melco will redistribute gaming tables and electronic machines from the closing sites to ensure that its remaining venues remain adequately equipped to handle existing and future customer demand.
Approval Sought to Keep Three Mocha Clubs Open Beyond 2025
While four venues prepare for closure, Melco is taking steps to preserve its footprint in the Macau market. The company has applied to extend operations at three Mocha Clubs—Mocha Inner Harbour, Mocha Hotel Sintra, and Mocha Golden Dragon—beyond December 2025. These applications are currently under review and must meet regulatory and licensing standards set by the Macau authorities.
Strategic Response to Market and Regulatory Landscape
The decision comes amid ongoing shifts in Macau’s gaming landscape, including tighter regulatory scrutiny, evolving player trends, and the Macau Government’s push toward economic diversification. Satellite casinos and smaller slot venues have been under pressure due to revised concession terms introduced in 2023 that demand closer oversight and improved compliance.
Melco, one of the six concessionaires in Macau, appears to be consolidating resources and adjusting its asset footprint to align with these changing regulatory expectations while preserving profitability.
Conclusion: Operational Streamlining Without Workforce Impact
While the closure of four properties signals a new chapter for Melco’s Macau presence, the company’s approach—maintaining jobs, repurposing assets, and focusing on stronger venues—reflects a cautious but forward-looking strategy. With regulatory approval pending for its remaining Mocha Clubs, Melco is evidently aiming to balance operational efficiency with its long-term investment in the region’s gaming market.
