At least three different integrated resort developments are pursuing casino licenses in Jamaica, which is expected to welcome its first licensed casino before the peak winter tourism season.
Three More Operators Are Trying to Get a License in Jamaica
Last year, Jamaica created a casino zone with a $4 billion investment, and the country’s first casino license was recently awarded to Adamas Grand Casino Limited for the Princess Grand Jamaica Resort in Green Island, Hanover. Jamaica’s Casino Gaming Commission CEO, Cleveland Allen, said Princess plans to open its casino by December, but has until March 31, 2027, to satisfy all regulatory requirements under the terms of its license.
However, at least three other projects are already considering casino operations, according to Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett. Bartlett also confirmed that the proposed Hard Rock development at Rose Hall is among the projects seeking a casino license, while emphasizing that all applicants must meet rigorous due diligence and regulatory standards.
He added that the introduction of casino gaming would diversify Jamaica’s tourism offering by attracting higher-spending visitors and creating new jobs that require specialized training. He also explained that the government will work with Adamas Grand Casino to prepare Jamaicans for careers in casino gaming.
What Caveats Are There to the New Rules?
While Bartlett confirmed that three other casino projects are being worked on, he also stressed that obtaining a casino licence involves a rigorous approval process. This requires extensive due diligence and compliance with both local and international standards.
He also emphasised that, while casino gaming will form part of Jamaica’s tourism offering, the country does not intend to position itself as a casino destination. Instead, he said Jamaica should be viewed as a destination that offers casino gaming as one component of a broader tourism experience.
Bartlett added that the Casino Gaming Act permits casinos only within approved Integrated Resort Developments (IRDs), preventing them from operating as stand-alone gambling establishments. Earlier this year, Jamaica passed changes to its Casino Gaming Act to establish a more stable framework for how the country’s Casino Gaming Commission will administer its processes.
Unlike other strict gaming jurisdictions, both residents and tourists will be allowed to participate in casino gaming, although entry to casino floors will be limited to resort guests and visitors with authorized access. Bartlett said that no tourism activity should exclude Jamaicans, explaining that the integrated resort model was designed to balance controlled access with inclusivity. He noted that while unrestricted public entry would not be permitted, Jamaicans would still be able to enjoy the same amenities and experiences available to tourists.