Macau has opened its first hospital inside a casino resort. The facility sits within Studio City, a Hollywood-themed complex operated by Melco Resorts.
Hong Kong-based iRad Hospital runs the 15,000sqft site. It offers health screening, diagnostic imaging and cosmetic procedures. The facility has MRI and CT scanning equipment.
The development follows Beijing’s push to diversify Macau’s economy beyond gambling. Chinese president Xi Jinping called for “new industries with international competitiveness” during a December 2024 visit. Like Hong Kong, Macau is a Special Administrative Zone of China, meaning it has some exemption from general Chinese policy but is still run and managed by Beijing.
Macau’s casino revenues collapsed during pandemic shutdowns. Gaming taxes still fund most government revenue, but the city now needs alternatives.
Medical tourism is already established across Asia. South Korea draws patients for cosmetic surgery. Singapore attracts those seeking advanced treatments. India offers cheaper procedures than Western markets.
Macau processes almost 40m visitors annually. The model aims to extend stays and increase spending. Visitors can now combine leisure with medical services.
The territory overtook Las Vegas as the world’s biggest gambling hub in 2006. It opened its casino market to global operators in 2002, shortly after returning to Chinese control in 1999.
The shift creates opportunities beyond gaming. Macau has existing tourism infrastructure, international connectivity and proximity to wealthy Chinese markets. Projects combining hospitality and healthcare could attract private investment.
The development suggests growing institutional support for non-gaming ventures in the region.
