Las Vegas, Nevada – In a surprising twist to its globally recognized casino-centric tourism model, Las Vegas has announced plans to develop its first ever casino-free luxury resort. Scheduled to break ground in early 2024, the new resort aims to cater to families and travelers seeking premium experiences without the gaming environment. This groundbreaking development reflects the city’s strategic redirection towards broadening its tourist demographics and economic sustainability.
The innovative project, dubbed “Oasis Las Vegas,” is set to rise on the famed Las Vegas Strip and is engineered to provide an unparalleled family-oriented experience. Spanning over 30 acres, Oasis Las Vegas will feature a variety of attractions including a world-class water park, a digital interactive theme park, and a series of culinary adventures led by renowned chefs. Importantly, the resort will also focus on wellness, with extensive spa and fitness facilities aimed at promoting health and relaxation.
“This marks a pivotal shift in the Las Vegas tourism landscape,” said Alexis Carter, CEO of Harmony Resorts, the company spearheading the development. “While gaming remains a strong facet of our economy, there is a growing segment of the global travel market seeking premium, non-gaming experiences. Oasis Las Vegas is poised to meet these demands while setting new standards in family and wellness tourism.”
The decision by Harmony Resorts to invest in a non-gaming luxury property underscores a broader trend in Las Vegas. Recent reports by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority indicate a steady increase in family and wellness tourism, with corresponding demand for non-gaming accommodations and entertainment. This shift is part of a larger transformation seen across many casino-heavy destinations worldwide as they diversify tourism offerings to become more inclusive and less dependent on gaming revenues.
Economic experts project that Oasis Las Vegas could serve as a model for future developments not only in Nevada but globally. “The economic implications are significant. Diversification helps stabilize local economies and reduces vulnerability to the fluctuating fortunes of casino tourism,” explained Dr. Fiona Reed, an economist specializing in tourism diversification.
Local businesses and community leaders have expressed strong support for the project, citing potential benefits including job creation and increased visitor numbers. “Oasis Las Vegas will attract a new type of visitor to our city, boosting not only our local economy but also enhancing our community’s profile as a multifaceted tourist destination,” said Michael Hart, president of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce.
In terms of design and sustainability, the planners of Oasis Las Vegas have committed to eco-friendly building practices and sustainable operations, aligning with global environmental standards and responding to the increasing consumer demand for responsible travel options.
The unveiling of Oasis Las Vegas comes at a time when the global tourism industry is seeking innovative ways to adapt to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences post-pandemic. It also highlights a strategic shift as destinations traditionally associated with specific activities, such as gambling in the case of Las Vegas, seek to broaden their appeal and ensure long-term viability.
Oasis Las Vegas is expected to open its doors in late 2025, offering a new vision for Las Vegas and setting a benchmark for future developments in the global hospitality and tourism sectors.
As the project progresses, all eyes will certainly be on Las Vegas as it leads the way in redefining the conventional casino town image, potentially inspiring similar transformations in gaming-centric locales around the world.
