The highly anticipated MGM Osaka integrated resort (IR), set to be one of Japan’s premier entertainment destinations, will officially commence its main construction phase in April 2025. This landmark project is being developed by Osaka IR KK, a consortium led by U.S.-based MGM Resorts International and Japan’s Orix Corporation. As per Kensetsutsushin Shimbun, a prominent Japanese business publication focusing on construction news, the project is on track to be completed by July 2030.
Construction timeline set for MGM Osaka integrated resort:
Initial groundwork for the development began in October 2024, marking the early stages of preparing the site on Yumeshima Island, an artificial landmass in Osaka Bay. According to the Osaka IR District Development Plan, the complex is expected to open its doors by autumn 2030.
This JPY1.27 trillion (approximately USD8.07 billion) project signifies Japan’s foray into integrated resorts, combining hospitality, entertainment, retail, and gaming under one roof.
At the heart of this project lies “section B,” a key area spanning 101,713 square meters (about 1.09 million square feet), which will house the resort’s main building. This iconic structure is planned to include 27 above-ground stories and one basement floor, with a gross floor area totaling 527,320 square meters. Once complete, the building will feature a wide range of facilities.
As GGRAsia reports, the main building of the MGM Osaka resort will feature a luxury hotel providing world-class accommodations for domestic and international travelers, alongside a state-of-the-art casino that will serve as the centerpiece of entertainment. Guests can also enjoy a theater designed for live performances and events, a selection of high-end retail spaces offering an elevated shopping experience, and a diverse array of dining options catering to all tastes.
The design for section B has been crafted by a joint venture between Takenaka Corporation and Nihon Sekkei Inc., two renowned architectural and engineering firms. While the design phase is complete, the construction contractor for this section has yet to finalize.
The broader scope of the development:
The integrated resort spans a total land area of 492,680 square meters, with the gross floor area for the entire complex expected to range between 731,000 and 848,000 square meters. Current plans estimate the development will reach approximately 770,525 square meters. These dimensions underline the project’s ambitious scale, which aims to position the MGM Osaka resort as a global destination for entertainment and leisure.
The development reflects Japan’s strategic effort to capitalize on the growing tourism and gaming industries, particularly following legislative changes that allowed integrated resort casinos. By blending traditional Japanese culture with modern hospitality, MGM Osaka hopes to attract millions of visitors annually, boosting local and national economies.
Preparatory work at the site began months earlier, in October 2024, ensuring everything is in place for the main construction phase to start on schedule. The Osaka IR KK consortium has made clear that this development aligns with broader regional goals of revitalizing the economy, creating jobs, and promoting Osaka as a key destination on the global map. The IR’s ambitious timeline aims to ensure the project is ready for its planned opening in autumn 2030.
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