By Desiree Tresa Gasper

SINGAPORE - Resorts World Sentosa, which is expected to open its doors early next year, will provide up to 45,000 job opportunities.

The resort's assistant director of communications, Robin Goh, said the vast employment opportunities created would also help boost the economic situation in the region.

"Resorts World Sentosa is a one-of-a-kind destination and will definitely attract much interest," he said during a media familiarisation tour on Tuesday.

He added that the company had already sent a batch of employees to be trained overseas.

"They have been sent to Universal Studios in Orlando, United States, for robust training exercises and have returned to share their knowledge with the locals," he said.

Goh said most Singaporeans did not have experience in the casino or theme park industry as the organisation was the first to open one in the city-state.

He said various jobs with specific expertise would also be offered to international employees.

"Employment priority will be given to locals but if we cannot get them, we will open it to those from other countries," he added.

Resorts World Sentosa CEO Tan Hee Teck said the project, one of the most expensive tourism projects in the world, cost over US$4.4bil.

"One of the main draws of the resort will be Universal Studios Singapore, which will feature more than 24 different rides for visitors," he said.

He said the park was expected to generate over S$4.5mil in the first year.

Universal Studios Singapore includes seven different themed zones such as Ancient Egypt, The Lost World, Far Far Away and Madagascar.