Hard Rock International and Melco sign deal for a Macau development

Hard Rock International and Melco Hotels and Resorts Limited (Macau), a subsidiary of Melco PBL Entertainment (Macau), have signed definitive agreements for the development of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Macau at the City of Dreams Casino and Entertainment Resort Complex, currently under construction in Macau, a special administrative region of China, on the Cotai Strip.

Melco PBL Entertainment is developing the City of Dreams to be a „must-see“ integrated casino and entertainment resort. The City of Dreams development is planned to feature an underwater- themed casino and four luxurious hotels, including Hard Rock Hotel, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency and the Crown Towers, among other features. The development is planned to open in two phases, with the first phase (which is planned to include the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Macau), expected to be opened late 2008.

„We are delighted with the prospective opening of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Macau in the City of Dreams Resort and also to work closely with Melco PBL Entertainment,“ said Hamish Dodds, President and CEO, Hard Rock International. „Macau is the entertainment gateway to Asia and one of the world’s premier gaming destinations, and Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Macau will be among its most unique properties. This development will chart the path for many more exciting Hard Rock leisure developments in Asia and a great new strategic relationship with Melco PBL Entertainment.“

The high-energy Hard Rock property will be the first Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Asia and will feature a state-of-the-art Hard Rock Casino with a mix of table games and slot devices; an approximately 380-room Hard Rock Hotel with guest rooms and suites designed by leading-edge Hard Rock designers, plus two custom „Rock Star“ mega-suites.

A Hard Rock Cafe will be offering Hard Rock’s updated menu, as well as a designated area for live music and a Rock Shop featuring Hard Rock’s traditional and new rock-star designed and inspired merchandise; there will also be a VIP roof-top nightclub with direct elevator service and the best nighttime views of Macau; a stylish casual dining restaurant offering round-the-clock service with Hard Rock accents; a stimulating health and fitness center complete with Hard Rock’s relaxing spa treatment rooms; a variety of uniquely designed meeting spaces; and an expansive pool and entertainment deck featuring Hard Rock’s custom cabanas and underwater music experiences.

Macau is already positioned as one of the world’s largest gaming markets, with annual gaming revenue topping USD 5 billion, on par with the Las Vegas Strip. Melco PBL Entertainment currently has two properties under construction including the City of Dreams.