Japan’s highly anticipated MGM Osaka integrated resort (IR) is advancing full steam ahead, with the national government affirming that both the developer and Osaka’s local authorities are pushing the project forward with notable vigor. According to a recent statement from the Japan Tourism Agency—part of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism—the project is “proceeding vigorously” and continues to satisfy all the stipulated requirement criteria.

This assessment stems from the government’s annual evaluation of the “Osaka IR District Development Plan” for fiscal year 2024. The IR, estimated at a staggering ¥1.27 trillion (roughly US $8.6 billion), is slated for completion by summer 2030 on Yumeshima Island, an artificial landmass in Osaka Bay.

Importantly, noted that MGM Osaka Corp—the consortium developing the project alongside Osaka’s city and prefectural governments—has nearly finalized the detailed design of the IR complex, meeting all necessary planning benchmarks.

A Storied Journey: From Ambition to Construction

The MGM Osaka project has traversed a long path, marked by strategic partnerships and steady regulatory progress. In 2021, MGM Resorts International, in collaboration with Orix Corporation, was officially selected by Osaka as its integrated resort partner. At the time, MGM’s CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle hailed it as a pivotal moment to bolster Osaka’s global tourism and entertainment appeal.

By April 2023, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism approved the Area Development Plan, endorsing the project as the nation’s first integrated resort—and the groundwork for construction quickly followed.

In 2024, MGM's leadership reinforced their commitment by opting not to invoke the escape clause in their agreement, signaling unwavering dedication despite rising costs. President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle confirmed that “we are in the ground as we speak,” with piling expected to begin around mid‑2025 and a targeted opening in mid‑2030.

Groundbreaking and Future Outlook

April 2025 marked a significant milestone as construction officially commenced, with a ceremony launching the first phase of building on Yumeshima Island. MGM Osaka will include expansive offerings: three hotels comprising 2,500 rooms, a massive conference area spanning roughly 730,000 square feet, a 3,500‑seat theater, plus retail and dining options—all tailored to reshape Japan’s hospitality and entertainment landscape.

Looking ahead, the national government is gearing up for a second wave of IR license bids by the end of 2027. If realized, this could usher in two additional integrated resorts, further extending Japan’s IR framework beyond MGM Osaka .