The development includes a 15,000-seat state-of-the-art arena being designed by global design firm Populous. Specially created to host the highest calibre of regional and international touring acts, concerts and large-scale live events, the venue will be optimised for unparalleled acoustics, sightlines and production flexibility.

The groundbreaking event was officiated by Singapore’s Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong; Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations Grace Fu; and Las Vegas Sands co-founder Dr Miriam Adelson, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert Goldstein, and President and Chief Operating Officer Patrick Dumont.

Robert Goldstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Las Vegas Sands, said: “With its opening in 2010, our founder Sheldon G. Adelson embarked on a journey in Singapore with Marina Bay Sands and the people of Singapore that promised to change the face of tourism in the region. Fifteen years later, we have delivered on these ambitions and more. Marina Bay Sands is the world’s most successful integrated resort in history, and the gold standard in the industry. It has been truly incredible to witness Mr Adelson’s vision come to life, and we are proud to carry his legacy forward with today’s groundbreaking ceremony for our new development here. We have every intention of delivering a product that will be the envy of the hospitality industry and ushers in a new era of luxury tourism in Singapore.”

When completed, the new development is set to redefine industry standards further and push boundaries in the realms of luxury tourism, hospitality and entertainment, curating the finest and most exclusive suite of experiences for travellers.

The pioneering project will feature a soaring 570-suite luxury hotel tower capped with signature rooftop and dining experiences, luxury retail boutiques, gaming, holistic spa and wellness amenities, and approximately 200,000 square feet of premium meeting space.  Proving to be another extraordinary feat of engineering, the new property is being designed by Safdie Architects.

Situated adjacent to the hotel tower, is the podium that will serve as a bustling hotspot for business, entertainment and cultural exchange. At its core is the state-of-the-art arena. The purpose-built arena situated against the stunning backdrop of Marina Bay aims to enhance the live entertainment scene in Asia, and is being designed by Populous.

The arena will be integrated with new and existing developments within the Marina Bay precinct for greater efficiency and pedestrian connectivity, providing direct access to Bayfront MRT station and linkways between Marina Bay and Gardens by the Bay.

Senior Principal and Head of Populous’ Singapore Studio Andrew Tulen, and Founding Partner of Safdie Architects Moshe Safdie helped to officiate the groundbreaking ceremony where more than 220 guests saw Marina Bay Sands illuminated in a wash of golden hues.