As Timor-Leste advances its economic diversification strategy, the tourism and entertainment sectors have been prioritized as national development pillars. A flagship government-backed investment, the Oecusse Five-Star Resort leverages the country’s first legal online gaming license to create a premium mixed-use destination that blends tourism, leisure, entertainment, and business. With a total investment of USD 1 billion, the resort is set to position Oecusse as Southeast Asia’s next-generation integrated entertainment hub.
Government-Endorsed, Legally Regulated Operations
First Offshore Gaming License – GRU
In April 2025, Golden River Universe Lda (GRU) signed a national concession agreement with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Coordination, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, becoming Timor-Leste’s first officially licensed offshore online gaming operator.
GRU operates under the umbrella of Grand Dragon Lotaria (GDLotto) and will establish a TOGOS Hub in the Oecusse Special Economic Zone, relocating its customer service and R&D teams from Cambodia and the Philippines to Timor-Leste.
This strategic relocation brings not only economic activity but also knowledge and technology transfer. The movement of a specialized workforce and infrastructure to Timor-Leste is expected to stimulate the domestic talent pool, foster innovation, and support the development of a digitally competent local workforce.
Establishing a Modern Online Gaming Sector
Timor-Leste has established an independent regulatory authority to oversee the issuance of lawful online gaming and land-based gambling licenses. The launch of this sector is viewed as a catalyst for national modernization and broad-based economic reform.
The online gaming sector is being developed in alignment with international best practices, including strict Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols, cybersecurity protections, and player protection mechanisms. By embedding these standards from inception, Timor-Leste aims to attract credible international operators and investors seeking a transparent and reliable regulatory environment.
A Robust Legal Framework
Under Decree-Law No. 6/2009, Timor-Leste provides a legal structure for multiple forms of gambling, including lotteries, cockfighting, and casino games. The law integrates gambling into the formal economy, reduces impunity, generates public revenue, and promotes social and financial stability. It emphasizes transparency and open bidding in granting gaming licenses and concessions.
The government has proactively legislated to regulate the online gaming industry, ensuring transparency and compliance. As a national priority project, the Oecusse resort enjoys preferential policies such as tax incentives, streamlined permitting, and investor protection, providing a secure and reliable environment for long-term investment.
By embracing this robust legal foundation, Timor-Leste also signals its commitment to good governance and ethical investment—qualities increasingly valued in global development partnerships.
Premium Integrated Resort Driving Regional Tourism Growth
Located in Timor-Leste’s coastal exclave of Oecusse, the resort offers stunning oceanfront views and tropical charm. The project includes:
- A five-star hotel and luxury villa complex delivering a premium hospitality experience;
- An international-standard gaming complex combining physical casinos with online gaming platforms to serve global players;
- An upscale commercial center with retail, dining, and conference facilities;
- Coastal leisure offerings such as a yacht club and diving center, designed to attract high-net-worth global travelers.
These components are designed with sustainability and environmental sensitivity in mind. Eco-friendly architecture, renewable energy systems, and local materials are central to the resort’s construction philosophy, aligning tourism growth with climate resilience goals.
Digital Economy + Tourism Entertainment: A New Growth Engine
The project is expected to generate thousands of local jobs and attract foreign capital and international visitors through its innovative model combining tourism, gaming, and digital entertainment. From construction and infrastructure roles to service, tech, and administrative jobs, the resort will play a crucial role in building local capacity and reducing unemployment.
By integrating digital platforms such as mobile gaming, live-streaming casino services, and blockchain-based rewards systems, the Oecusse resort also positions itself at the forefront of next-gen leisure innovation.
Furthermore, the resort will host regular international expos and events aimed at promoting regional tourism, investment networking, and cultural exchange—solidifying its image as a dynamic hub for both business and leisure.
Looking Ahead
Timor-Leste is committed to developing Oecusse into the “Macau of Southeast Asia,” fusing its natural landscapes with premium entertainment infrastructure to spearhead national economic transformation. The master plan includes future phases with expansion into luxury residential properties, medical tourism centers, and international schools—creating a self-sustaining economic cluster.
Ongoing discussions with global partners also envision the integration of smart city solutions, including digital identity systems, cashless payment infrastructure, and AI-powered customer experiences within the resort.
Simultaneously, the government is investing in transportation infrastructure—including highway upgrades, new airport facilities, and expanded broadband connectivity—to ensure regional access and enhance long-term viability. These complementary initiatives reinforce the project’s strategic positioning and support a favorable business climate.
For investors, this project offers high-return potential backed by long-term policy stability—an exceptional entry point into the Southeast Asian market. With strong government support, legal clarity, and a bold vision for integration, Oecusse is poised to become a case study in purposeful, well-governed tourism-led development.
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