The President of Cyprus has described the impending launch of Melco Resorts and Entertainment’s €550 million City of Dreams Mediterranean project as a game-changer for the republic’s tourism industry.
President Nicos Anastasiades was speaking during a special preview event held at the site last week in which he was given a tour of the property ahead of its planned 2Q23 opening.
“The creation of an integrated casino had been one of the government’s goals, knowing that it would contribute to the enrichment of our tourist product, the rise in tourist arrivals, and the creation of new jobs, with obvious benefits to the country’s economy,” Anastasiades said.
“It would not be an exaggeration if we say that the casino ushers a new era for our country by creating new prospects that bolster Cyprus’ position on the map of international tourism. Large-scale developments such as the City of Dreams Mediterranean represent vital projects and a point of reference for the entire country.”
Melco Chairman and CEO Lawrence Ho was also present to show the President around and said the company’s latest development – which is set to become the largest IR in Europe, aimed to provide a new level of hospitality to the Cyprus tourism industry.
“Almost five years ago, we gathered at this beautiful location to break ground for this ambitious project,” Ho said. “Today, we are one step away from ushering in a new era for Cyprus, its tourism, and the economy.
“Our ambition is for City of Dreams Mediterranean to become the flagship of the island’s tourist product and one of the main contributors to Cyprus’ economic growth.
“To us, it’s about beyond gaming. It’s about providing guests with world-class experiences. Whether it is entertainment, dining, or business, we are to constantly pushing boundaries when it comes to providing premium guest experiences.”
When complete, City of Dreams Mediterranean will boast a 7,500-square meter casino with 100 gaming tables and 1,000 slot machines, plus a 500-room, 5-star hotel, MICE space and restaurants.
Melco currently operates four satellite casinos across Cyprus under the C2 brand, including a temporary facility in Limassol near where City of Dreams is being built.