Are Macau Casinos Open? A Guide to Visiting in the Time of Covid-19
Macau, the bustling gambling hub of Asia, has a reputation for being a go-to destination for gaming enthusiasts worldwide. However, with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the region’s casino industry was forced to shut down entirely in February 2020, leaving operators to face financial distress. But as the situation steadily improved, the industry has since swung back to life, with Macau’s casinos reopening their doors to the public. This article takes an in-depth look at Macau’s casinos’ reopening strategy, their health and safety measures, and what visitors can expect when visiting the area.
Gambling In The Time Of Covid-19: A Look At Macau’s Reopening Strategy
Macau’s casino industry, one of the primary drivers of the region’s economy, ground to a halt last year as the pandemic escalated globally. However, in September 2020, the government allowed casinos to resume operations. As part of the reopening strategy, the city’s gambling industry introduced several measures to ensure customers’ safety amidst the pandemic. For instance, visitors to the casinos have to undergo temperature checks before entering and wear masks throughout their stay in the gaming halls. The casinos have further implemented social distancing rules, installing plexiglass barriers between players to separate them and limit the spread of germs.
Besides those measures, Macau’s casinos have increased cleaning and disinfection protocols for gaming equipment and public spaces. For instance, casinos that offer dealers to customers now require dealers to sanitize their hands regularly and wear protective gloves while dealing. Meanwhile, slot machines and electronic games undergo regular cleaning and disinfection. All employees in Macau’s casinos must undergo health checks and provide negative Covid-19 test results before resuming work.
Despite these measures, some visitors have expressed concerns about how necessary they are, with some players wearing masks incorrectly or not at all while in the casinos. Observers have stressed the need for vigilance in adhering to safety protocols to avert any risk.
What To Expect When Visiting Macau Casinos After Lockdown
Visiting Macau’s casinos in the post-lockdown era may feel different from what players are used to, but it shouldn’t be daunting. Visitors will first have to undergo temperature checks and fill in a health declaration form before entering the casinos. Those without masks will not be allowed to enter any gaming hall. Plexiglass barriers installed between customers, dealers, and slot machines to adhere to social distancing rules mean customers will need to maintain an appropriate distance from other players. Furthermore, casino staff will provide sanitizing wipes to customers that can be used to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects.
It is also worth noting that smoking is still allowed in gaming areas, but drinking and eating is not permitted. With dozens of choices of casinos, each implementing unique measures to ensure customers’ safety, it is essential to research the specific protocols before visiting.
Macau’s Casino Industry Bounces Back After Extended Closure
The closure of Macau’s casinos was a severe blow for the region’s economy and the casino industry. Many of the city’s prominent gaming operators suffered huge financial losses, with several publically citing the pandemic as a significant contributor to their businesses’ declining results.
However, the reopening of Macau’s casinos sparked a much-needed economic boost to the region. The steady return of tourists and customers caused gross gaming revenue to increase to $1.03 billion in March 2021, up by 58.2% from the previous year. Additionally, the casino industry reported steady growth in revenue through 2021, with September gross gaming revenue climbing 528% YoY. These results suggest that the worst is over as far as the casinos are concerned.
The Future Of Macau’s Casino Industry In The New Normal
Macau’s casino industry is facing a new normal, one that is still grappling with the pandemic’s impact. The industry is adapting to the current situation, with several innovations aimed at retaining customers in the long run. For instance, many of Macau’s casinos are introducing digital payments and mobile wallet options to limit physical contact and promote cashless transactions. Casinos are also partnering with local businesses to provide visitors with a range of services to extend the customer experience outside of the casino.
Industry insiders predict a cautious and gradual recovery for the casino industry, but are optimistic about its future given its importance to the region’s economy. In light of the pandemic, many customers have shifted towards online modes of play, creating uncertainties for the gaming industry in the future.
Health And Safety Concerns Amidst The Reopening Of Macau Casinos
Some health and safety concerns remain in the casino industry in light of the pandemic’s ongoing situation. Critics, for instance, have highlighted the inadequacy of ventilation inside some casinos, putting customers at unnecessary risk of infection. Further risks can arise from shared gaming equipment, which must undergo regular cleaning and disinfection to avert potential transmission. However, despite these concerns, the local government continues to monitor the situation closely and provide guidelines for casinos to follow.
Conclusion
Macau casinos are now open for business after the pandemic-induced lockdown. The reopening of casinos has brought about welcome relief for the area’s economy. While Macau’s casinos have put measures in place to ensure customers’ safety, a degree of vigilance on playing in line with these protocols is necessary. Moreover, the industry’s fate in the future remains unpredictable, but it is clear that the Macau region remains one of the leading gaming destinations globally.