The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government has announced a strategic initiative to transform over 5 square kilometers of dormant land into a dual-purpose development: an integrated international tourism and cultural zone, alongside a cutting-edge science and technology industrial park. The announcement was made by Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai.

Strategic Site Selection Begins
In the second half of the year, authorities will commence the evaluation of suitable sites for both projects. Macao currently controls approximately 3.5 square kilometers of reclaimed land, in addition to 85 idle plots and around 100 sites repossessed from private developers due to prolonged inactivity since 2009. Although 5.5 square kilometers of land are available, only a fraction—about 200,000 square meters—has been developed to date.

Innovation Parks: Repurposing Legacy Sites
A cross-departmental task force is actively assessing proposed sites for the science and technology park. Potential locations under review include:

• The Macao Jockey Club
• The former Ocean World site near the former University of Macao Taipa campus
• Land adjacent to Macao International Airport
• These legacy sites are being reconsidered for their potential to serve as catalysts for technological innovation and industrial modernization.

(MSARG)

Coastal Development Inspired by Global Icons
In parallel, the SAR government is planning a comprehensive coastal tourism zone, modeled after international benchmarks such as Sydney. Proposed sites include:

• The southern portion of New Reclamation Zone A
• Macao Science Centre and Cultural Centre
• The former Ocean World site
• New Reclamation Zone D

Cultural Partnerships on a Global Scale
To elevate Macao’s global cultural profile, the government aims to collaborate with renowned institutions including the Palace of Versailles (France) and the British Museum (UK) to host world-class exhibitions and performances.

Driving Diversification and Economic Resilience
These land-use initiatives, outlined in the 2025 Policy Address, form a cornerstone of Macao’s broader strategy to diversify its economy beyond gaming. By integrating tourism, culture, and technology into its urban planning framework, Macao is positioning itself as a resilient and forward-looking metropolitan hub.


Comparative Snapshot: Macau vs. Global Urban Redevelopment Projects

(Source: Building.hk)

Key Takeaways

• Macao’s approach is relatively modest in scale but highly strategic, focusing on economic diversification and cultural elevation through targeted land reuse.
• Unlike mega-projects like NEOM or New Cairo, Macao’s plan is incremental and adaptive, leveraging existing urban assets (e.g., Macao Jockey Club) and global partnerships.
• Its dual-focus model—tourism and tech—is similar to Barangaroo and Hudson Yards, but with a stronger emphasis on cultural diplomacy.
• Macao’s plan aligns with sustainability and heritage-conscious redevelopment, echoing Seoullo 7017 and King’s Cross in its reuse of legacy sites.