On 8 June 2025, Col. Panthach Sangchote, Executive Director and Honorary Secretary of the Royal Turf Club of Thailand under Royal Patronage (RTCT), reintroduced a previously announced plan to invest in a large-scale entertainment complex in Phuket, featuring ultra-luxury hotels, a Formula 1 track, and a legal casino, pending government approval. While originally announced in 2024, the project had gone quiet until now.

The RTCT stated that they are preparing funding with partners from Monaco and Hong Kong, and are prepared to participate in the bidding process should the Thai government move forward with relevant legislation and licensing. As of now, casinos remain illegal in Thailand, and the entertainment complex is still in the proposal stage.

A New Era for Phuket’s East Coast

The first of its kind in Thailand, the project's planned features include ultra-luxury 5- to 7-star hotels and pool villas, a marina, a horse racing track, sports venues, a convention center, concert halls, and a Formula 1 racetrack. The casino will be located on a private island, which will also host hotels and resorts.

The estimated investment for the project is THB 140 billion, backed by a Monaco-based group specializing in real estate and casino developments. The project will span over 1,200 rai, divided between two sites: a 275-rai private island, Rang Yai Island, just off the coast of Ao Por, and a 927-rai plot on the Ao Por shoreline on Phuket’s east coast.

Development is slated to begin in Phuket in the first quarter of 2026, and the first phase is expected to open in 2029. The project is expected to create numerous jobs, benefit local businesses, and generate significant tax revenue.

What Could This Mean for Phuket’s Property Market?

If this ambitious project proceeds, it would mark a defining moment for Phuket’s east coast, similar to how the launch of Laguna Phuket reshaped Bang Tao in the 1990s. Ao Por and nearby areas, long overshadowed by the west coast, could see increased demand from investors seeking early access to prime locations near this potential mega-development.

A development of this magnitude is expected to attract high-net-worth individuals, global investors, and premium tourism. That influx will likely drive land values sharply upward, not only in Ao Por but across Phuket’s east coast. Despite its natural beauty and marina access, the area has remained relatively underdeveloped compared to the island’s west coast. This project would also further position Phuket as a world-class destination for luxury living, investment, and integrated leisure.

However, it’s important to recognize that this project is still in the conceptual stage, with no final government approval, licensing, or environmental sign-off. Thailand’s political and regulatory landscape can be unpredictable, and past mega-projects have faced delays or been cancelled altogether.

Impact on Ao Por and East Coast's Property Markets:

• The inclusion of a casino and ultra-premium amenities is designed to attract affluent international investors and tourists will lead to a surge in demand for both residential and commercial properties in and around the area. 
• The increased demand will likely cause property values in Ao Por to rise, making it a potentially lucrative investment for early investors.
• Phuket’s east coast luxury property market is already established, and this investment will likely accelerate the trend, particularly for waterfront and seaview villas, catering to high-net-worth individuals. 
• The project will necessitate the development of supporting infrastructure and will likely lead to further infrastructure improvements, such as roads, utilities, and public transportation, which can further enhance the appeal and value of properties in the area. 
• The development may spur further development of residential and commercial properties in the area, potentially including new residential complexes, hotels, and retail spaces, catering to the needs of both tourists and long-term residents. 
• The entertainment complex is expected to boost tourism to Phuket, particularly from those seeking entertainment and leisure activities, potentially increasing demand for rental properties and short-term accommodations in both areas.
• The project is expected to create jobs and stimulate the local economy, which could also positively impact the property market.

Investor Takeaway

While the scale and ambition of this proposed project are undeniable, investors should adopt a measured, wait-and-see approach. Thailand’s political environment is known for policy shifts, long approval timelines, and legal grey areas, particularly around high-stakes sectors like gambling and large-scale development.

Although early land speculation may seem attractive, prudent investors will likely wait for greater legal clarity, confirmed approvals, and evidence of real progress before making significant moves.

That said, this announcement does spotlight Phuket’s east coast as an area to watch. Even if the full project doesn’t materialize, increased attention could still lead to infrastructure upgrades and other investments in Ao Por and nearby zones.

Interested in Investing Near Phuket’s East Coast Growth Zones?

If you’re watching the developments around Ao Por and Phuket’s east coast, we can help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re scouting land, villas, or investment-ready properties in high-potential areas, our local experts can guide you with up-to-date insights and listings. Contact us today to discuss opportunities