Western Bureau: Jamaica is poised to make history with the unveiling of its first casino, set to open at the island’s newest luxury resort, Princess Jamaica, in Green Island, Hanover. Scheduled to begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2025, this landmark project aims to redefine Jamaica’s tourism landscape, blending cutting-edge entertainment with deep community engagement.
A New Chapter for Jamaican Tourism
The announcement was made by Enrico Pezzoli, Managing Director of Princess Hotels and Resorts, during the grand opening of the resort. “Construction is already under way,” Pezzoli confirmed, marking the beginning of a bold initiative to elevate Jamaica’s all-inclusive offerings.
The casino will feature a state-of-the-art gaming lounge, complemented by premium dining and beverage options. This ambitious project is designed to attract a new wave of global travelers, further solidifying Jamaica’s status as a premier luxury destination.
Commitment to Community and Sustainability
Beyond tourism, Princess Jamaica has pledged to make a meaningful impact on the Green Island community. Pezzoli emphasized the resort’s dedication to sustainability and fostering local partnerships.
“I am confident that our best days lie ahead, and I’m truly honored to be part of this incredible journey with all of you. Together, we will make a lasting impact—not just within our organization but in the lives of those we serve, with one love and pure passion,” he stated.
As part of this commitment, Princess Jamaica has adopted Green Island High School and Harvard Hall Private School, while forming partnerships with local hospitals, including Noel Holmes Hospital and Savanna-la-Mar General Public Hospital. These initiatives reflect a focus on education, healthcare, and sustainable development, ensuring that the project benefits both the environment and the local population.
Preserving Jamaica’s Natural Beauty
Spanning 100 acres of mangroves, Princess Jamaica has prioritized environmental conservation. The resort has implemented restoration efforts for this vital ecosystem and invested in green technologies, including a reverse osmosis plant for water treatment and a tri-generation plant powered by natural gas for efficient energy production.
The resort’s development complies with regulatory standards, thanks to guidance from the Casino Gaming Commission and the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA). This balance between progress and preservation underscores Jamaica’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The casino is expected to contribute significantly to Jamaica’s economy by attracting more tourists, creating jobs, and boosting local businesses. Pezzoli noted the early success of the resort, sharing that Princess Grand Jamaica has climbed to the #2 position on TripAdvisor in its category within just six weeks of opening.
The resort currently employs 1,400 workers, with plans to increase that number to 1,700 as the winter tourist season begins.
Historic First for Jamaica
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett praised the project as a milestone for the island. “This is the first casino in Jamaica’s history, a significant addition to our tourism product. It enhances Jamaica’s position as a premier global destination,” he said.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness echoed this sentiment during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, calling the development a transformative investment.
“Every room has a view of the sea, and that’s fantastic. This investment—a major one by any standard—signals confidence in Jamaica’s stable economic environment,” Holness remarked.
Infrastructure and Regional Development
Holness highlighted the broader benefits of the project, including job creation, infrastructure upgrades, and plans to enhance the area’s accessibility. Proposed developments include repairing the seawall road, constructing a bypass for Lucea, and establishing a new airport, all aimed at bolstering tourism and improving local livelihoods.
A Vision for the Future
The Princess Jamaica casino marks a turning point in the nation’s journey toward becoming a global hub for luxury tourism. By blending cutting-edge amenities with a deep respect for community and sustainability, this project not only raises the bar for Jamaica’s hospitality sector but also underscores the country’s commitment to progress and preservation.
As the resort prepares for its 2025 opening, Jamaica stands on the cusp of a new era—one defined by innovation, opportunity, and a shared vision for a brighter future.
