Planet Hollywood Launches Georgia's First Integrated Resort in Tbilisi

Planet Hollywood Resorts International made waves on March 20, 2026, when it revealed plans to enter the Tbilisi market through a license agreement with Orbi Group and Block Group, alongside Iconic Entertainment; this move paves the way for Georgia's inaugural integrated resort destination, complete with a Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino, and positions the project as a game-changer for the region's hospitality and gaming sectors. Construction already hums along in central Tbilisi, where developers aim to blend luxury accommodations, high-stakes gaming, world-class retail, and live entertainment into one seamless complex that draws visitors from across Europe and beyond. Observers note how such developments often signal a maturing tourism infrastructure, especially in emerging markets like Georgia, where integrated resorts promise to elevate the destination's global profile.

What's interesting here is the timing; with Tbilisi's skyline evolving rapidly, this project arrives at a moment when the city craves flagship attractions to complement its historic charm and burgeoning nightlife scene, turning what was once a hidden gem into a must-visit hotspot for leisure travelers and high-rollers alike.

Orbi Group and Block Group, local heavyweights in real estate and development, teamed up with Iconic Entertainment to secure the Planet Hollywood license, bringing together regional expertise with the iconic brand's global allure; this collaboration ensures the resort aligns with Tbilisi's urban fabric while delivering international standards that locals and tourists expect. Planet Hollywood Resorts International, known for its entertainment-driven properties worldwide, lends its Hollywood-themed flair—think red carpet vibes, celebrity memorabilia, and immersive experiences—to make the Tbilisi outpost stand out in a competitive landscape.

Take the Orbi Group's track record in large-scale projects; they've shaped Tbilisi's modern commercial spaces, and now, paired with Block Group's construction prowess and Iconic Entertainment's event know-how, the trio crafts a destination that feels both authentically Georgian and universally appealing, much like how successful resorts elsewhere have balanced local culture with broad entertainment draws.

• Orbi Group handles prime development coordination.
• Block Group oversees construction timelines.
• Iconic Entertainment infuses the entertainment programming.

The complex boasts a 500-room Planet Hollywood hotel designed for glamour-seekers, complete with themed suites that channel movie magic, alongside a 600-room Radisson Blu hotel catering to business travelers and families who want reliable luxury without the flash; together, these accommodations total over 1,100 rooms, ensuring capacity for peak seasons when Tbilisi's festivals and events pull in crowds. At the heart lies a 50,000-square-foot casino floor packed with slots, table games, and poker rooms that comply with Georgia's gaming regulations, offering a thrill that's accessible yet upscale.

But here's the thing: entertainment doesn't stop at gaming; a 4,000-seat venue stands ready for concerts, shows, and sports viewings, drawing top international acts to amplify the buzz, while over 70,000 square feet of Harvey Nichols retail space brings high-end fashion, luxury goods, and Georgian artisanal products under one roof—think designer labels rubbing shoulders with local wines and crafts. Dining and nightlife round out the offerings, with diverse restaurants spanning Georgian fusion to international cuisines, plus clubs and lounges that pulse late into the night, creating a 24/7 vibe that keeps guests immersed.

Figures from similar projects reveal how these elements synergize; integrated resorts like this one often see foot traffic multiply across sectors, as casino visitors wander into shops and shows, boosting overall revenue streams in ways standalone venues rarely match.

Developers project more than 2,000 permanent jobs from the resort, spanning hospitality staff, casino dealers, retail associates, venue technicians, and management roles; these positions not only provide stable employment but also include training programs tailored to local talent, helping bridge skill gaps in Georgia's growing service industry. Beyond payroll, the project injects significant capital into the local economy through supplier contracts, tax revenues, and infrastructure upgrades that benefit surrounding neighborhoods.

Tourism stands to gain the most; with Georgia's visitor numbers climbing steadily—data from the Georgian National Tourism Administration shows arrivals up year-over-year—this resort could accelerate that trend by attracting affluent Europeans, Middle Eastern travelers, and adventure seekers who blend city breaks with casino excitement. Experts who've studied integrated resorts point out how such hubs often multiply local spending; one analysis from the American Gaming Association highlights similar boosts in comparable markets, where gaming tourism spurs ancillary growth in hotels, transport, and retail.

And it's not just numbers; communities around these developments frequently see improved public services funded by new revenues, although success hinges on sustainable operations that prioritize local hiring and cultural integration.

Situated smack in the heart of Tbilisi, the site leverages proximity to landmarks like the Old Town, Rustaveli Avenue theaters, and the Mtatsminda Park funicular, making it a natural extension of the city's walkable attractions; construction progress means visitors might catch glimpses of the rising structure amid sulfur baths and cable car rides, building anticipation long before opening day. This positioning turns the resort into a nexus point, where guests step from ancient cobblestone streets into a modern playground, blending Georgia's rich heritage with cutting-edge leisure.

Those familiar with Tbilisi's evolution know how central developments like this anchor urban renewal; nearby infrastructure, from expanded public transit to pedestrian zones, often follows suit, enhancing accessibility for both residents and influxes of tourists who flock to the Caucasus for its unique mix of East-meets-West allure.

Turns out, the project's scale—spanning hotels, casino, retail, and entertainment—requires meticulous phasing; early phases focus on foundational work, with interiors ramping up to hit operational targets amid Tbilisi's favorable building climate.

Georgia's gaming sector has expanded thoughtfully in recent years, with regulations that encourage responsible operations while fostering economic contributions; this Planet Hollywood venture marks a milestone as the country's first true integrated resort, setting a benchmark for future projects that combine gaming with hospitality megastructures. People who've tracked the region's progress observe how Tbilisi, once overshadowed by coastal Black Sea resorts, now claims the spotlight for year-round appeal, thanks to initiatives like this one that diversify beyond ski slopes and wine tours.

It's noteworthy that Harvey Nichols' involvement elevates retail to a luxury draw, potentially positioning Tbilisi as a shopping destination akin to Budapest or Prague; meanwhile, the Radisson Blu partnership ensures multinational familiarity, pulling in loyalty program members who chase points across borders. Dining options, poised to highlight Georgian khachapuri alongside global steakhouses, further embed the resort in local flavors, creating authentic experiences that resonate long after guests depart.

As construction advances in central Tbilisi, Planet Hollywood's integrated resort emerges as Georgia's boldest hospitality play yet, promising 1,100 rooms, a expansive casino, premier retail, and entertainment that could redefine the city's visitor economy; with over 2,000 jobs on the horizon and partnerships driving quality, the March 20, 2026, announcement from Planet Hollywood Resorts International, Orbi Group, Block Group, and Iconic Entertainment underscores a commitment to sustainable growth. Observers anticipate ripple effects that strengthen tourism infrastructure, from heightened international arrivals to bolstered local revenues, solidifying Tbilisi's status as an emerging powerhouse. The reality is, when these resorts open, they don't just fill beds—they reshape destinations, and Tbilisi stands ready to shine.