Cipriani Delays San Rafael Opening Until 2027-2028 Season
Uruguay.- 12 August 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com Cipriani Group has confirmed that the opening of the San Rafael hotel and casino in Punta del Este has been postponed until the 2027-2028 season.
The company has therefore ruled out launching operations during the upcoming summer season, attributing the decision to accumulated delays in the construction programme.
News Details
The group said the delays resulted from several circumstances affecting the development over time, including the pandemic and the time required for various approval processes.
During recent weeks, the company held discussions with national and departmental authorities, representatives of the construction workers’ union, employees and other stakeholders connected with the project in an effort to recover the original timetable.
However, it was not possible to meet the deadlines required for an opening during the upcoming season.
The new objective is to resume full activity and establish a schedule capable of delivering the opening during the 2027-2028 season.
Employment and Commercial Impact
The postponement will affect existing reservations, contracted shows and international events originally planned for the property.
It will also have consequences for employees and businesses directly and indirectly linked to the construction and preparations for the resort.
More than 300 young people have been training at the Cipriani Academy since February in preparation for employment at the property, receiving specialist instruction in hospitality and gastronomy.
They are joined by other workers involved in preparations for the launch.
Once operational, the development is expected to employ more than 1,000 people across the hotel, restaurants and casino.
Project Context
Cipriani Group is assessing alternatives to provide employment opportunities both for academy participants and workers currently involved in preparations for the opening.
The company will also seek solutions to retain positions considered necessary until construction is completed.
Cipriani said it has invested approximately US$250 million in the San Rafael hotel and casino development.
A further US$45 million has been invested in the acquisition and refurbishment of the building and the establishment of the training academy.
Statements
Cipriani Group said the new opening target during the 2027-2028 season must be “non-postponable”.
The company also described the opening as “imperative” because of the costs involved in maintaining a project of this scale.
Despite the delays, it reaffirmed that its “conviction” in the development remains unchanged and that it will continue working to make the new San Rafael an international tourism landmark.
Next Steps or Impact
The principal challenge will now be to reorganise the construction schedule and ensure the complex is completed in time for the 2027-2028 season.
The company will also need to manage the commercial consequences of the postponement and provide alternatives for employees, suppliers and young people currently undergoing training.
The scale of the investment and the forecast of more than 1,000 direct jobs position the project as one of the most significant hotel and entertainment developments currently under construction in Punta del Este.
Editó: @fonta
