The US$10m–US$12m proposal would provide an interim operation while construction of the San Rafael resort remains delayed
Grupo Cipriani is discussing plans with Uruguay’s government to establish a smaller casino at Locanda Punta del Este ahead of the next summer season. The proposed venue remains subject to official approval, including agreement on how long it could operate.
The initiative follows the postponement of the Cipriani Resort, Residences & Casino development at the former Hotel San Rafael site. Its opening is now targeted for the 2027–2028 season after accumulated construction delays prevented the company from completing the project under its previous timetable.
Temporary alternative at Locanda Punta del Este
Locanda occupies the former Hotel Mantra and is also owned by Grupo Cipriani. The property currently houses the company’s hospitality and gaming academy, where more than 300 young people are receiving training for tourism-related roles.
Those students were originally expected to work at the San Rafael development. Cipriani is therefore considering the smaller casino as a way to provide employment for some academy participants and other workers whose roles were linked to the delayed resort opening.
Company representatives have held several meetings with Uruguay’s Ministry of Economy and Finance and submitted an action plan describing the proposed gaming operation. The associated investment is estimated at between US$10 million and US$12 million.
Cipriani already has authorisation to operate a casino as part of the San Rafael development. However, establishing a temporary venue at another property would require the company to justify the relocation and secure the necessary government consent.
Discussions are continuing over the conditions and permitted operating period of the proposed casino. No final authorisation or opening date has been announced.
