Da Lat, located in Vietnam’s central highlands, is moving forward with plans to open a new casino alongside a 900-meter pedestrian-only night market, aiming to boost the city’s evening economy.
The government-approved casino project is scheduled for completion by November 2026 and forms part of a wider initiative to upgrade tourism infrastructure around notable sites like the Valley of Love. The new night market will replace an overcrowded existing facility, providing visitors with a modern and spacious venue. However, accessibility challenges for international tourists raise questions about whether the casino will allow local Vietnamese participation or remain restricted to foreigners under current regulatory frameworks.
Local officials described the development as a “strategic step to diversify Da Lat’s tourism offerings and stimulate after-hours economic activity.” Provincial leadership highlighted that this initiative will enhance the city’s competitiveness and attract higher tourist spending, reinforcing Da Lat’s reputation as a premier mountain getaway destination.
Vietnam licenses casinos primarily for foreign visitors, while a limited pilot program permits select domestic players under strict criteria including age, income, and entry fees. Legislators continue reviewing proposals, balancing economic benefits with social safeguards. This project aligns with Vietnam’s broader regulatory approach by integrating anti-money laundering standards and gaming laws.
The exact status of Da Lat’s casino classification remains under review by provincial authorities and the Ministry of Finance.
Economically, the development is expected to generate jobs in hospitality and entertainment, increase local tax revenues, and stimulate related businesses through expanded nighttime tourism. The project supports national efforts to diversify tourism beyond coastal areas, promoting inland regions as attractive investment destinations. Da Lat’s dual development marks a regulatory and economic turning point for Vietnamese regional tourism infrastructure, signaling potential sustained growth within carefully monitored compliance boundaries.
