Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens luxury casino resort to open in 2026: report
Gambling entertainment giant Hard Rock International and Greek company GEK Terna Group have officially announced their partnership to build and operate an integrated casino resort in the city of Elinikon, which was home to Athens’ main airport until 2001. According to the project’s press release, the luxury 5-star facility is scheduled to open in 2026.
Construction of the resort is expected to begin during the first few months of 2023 and will last about three years.
Chairman and CEO of GEK Terna Group George Peristeris said: this initiative could be a turning point in the Greek economy, which is going through difficult times. The specialist said:
“The development will result in a premium tourism destination. It is expected to create employment for thousands of people, to bring significant revenues to the public sector and to add value to the entire country. Together with Hard Rock we will realize a private investment of over €1 billion, confirming our confidence in Greece’s prospects and potential.”
“We are very pleased to announce the partnership with GEK Terna Group and to further expand Hard Rock’s worldwide reach in the great city of Athens. This development will bring more than 3,000 jobs to the people of Greece. We look forward to offering our unique brand of entertainment to provide an unparalleled experience for guests of all ages,” said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International.
The five-star Hard Rock complex will include a casino with 200 tables and 2,000 slot machines, and a tower of more than 1,000 rooms (including suites) overlooking Athens’ waterfront. In addition, the project includes an entertainment center, the city’s tallest outdoor terrace and an advanced spa.
Remarkably, Hard Rock lost to Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment during the original bid more than two years ago. However, the winner eventually withdrew its interest in Hellinikon Integrated Resort. Last October, GEK Terna struck a deal to buy out the partner and proceed with the project.
Recall: Previously, the Greek authorities announced the technical details of the license of the casino resort in Athens.
