FIFA World Cup 2026 Kicks Off: Experience Every Match at Shangri La Tbilisi

Navigating the Casino Landscape in Georgia: Insights from the Tbilisi Gaming Festival
The Tbilisi Gaming Festival held on September 15-16, 2023, brought together industry experts and casino operators to discuss the ever-evolving landscape of land-based casinos in Georgia. Among the discussions, the panel focused on “Land-Based Casino Operators in Georgia – Opportunities and Challenges of the Growing Market.” John Harrak, Director VIP & Player Development, Executive Board Member of Storm International – a prominent figure in the industry, shared valuable insights on several key topics.

Adapting to Post-Pandemic Trends and opportunities, challenges within the growing market in Georgia
John began by addressing the market trends in Tbilisi, noting that the casino industry was gradually recovering from the pandemic’s impact. While Tbilisi and Batumi represent distinct markets, he highlighted Tbilisi’s appeal as the capital city, offering a range of attractions for players and their families. With a majority of players being foreigners, Tbilisi’s summer season remained vibrant, dispelling concerns about seasonal fluctuations.

Regarding the state of the casino business in Georgia, John Harrak emphasized that it was not in a developmental phase but a fully developed industry. New casinos continually enter the market, but they do so within an already mature sector. He stressed the importance of maintaining high service standards and adapting to evolving customer needs to thrive in this competitive environment.

Navigating Prohibited Advertising
A major challenge facing land-based casinos in Georgia is the prohibition of advertising, which aims to protect the local market. However, John explained that more than 90% of their visitors are foreigners, and the goal is not to attract Georgian players. The advertising restrictions primarily affect online casinos, creating a challenge for land-based operators. Despite these challenges, John emphasized the necessity of advertising to ensure a steady influx of customers.

Coexistence and Cooperation
“All the players that are coming to Batumi are already spoiled. Most of them went to Cyprus and Cyprus has very few government regulations. In general, Batumi has great operators with even greater service levels. They understand what they can do to make sure the business is safe. They protect and look out for their customers.”- John highlighted the unique dynamic and collaborative spirit among casino operators in Georgia.

Maintaining a Skilled Workforce
Addressing the issue of retaining staff, John noted that the casino business is typically favored by younger individuals. In Tbilisi, where there is an established casino presence, attracting and retaining staff is somewhat easier. Shangri La, for instance, runs training schools to nurture young talents and offers them opportunities for career advancement. The focus is not solely on monetary incentives but on providing a pathway to a promising future. This approach helps mitigate the challenges of staff turnover.

Supporting the Government and Industry
John emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the casino industry. Casinos have actively supported government initiatives, recognizing the mutual benefits of a thriving tourism and entertainment sector. This collaborative spirit has been particularly crucial during the pandemic, highlighting the intertwined interests of both parties.

In conclusion, the panel discussion shed light on the intricacies of operating land-based casinos in Georgia. Despite challenges such as advertising restrictions and staff retention, the industry continues to grow and adapt. The harmonious coexistence of operators and their support for government initiatives bode well for the future of the casino industry in Georgia.

The spirit of adventure and teamwork recently soared to new heights as the Shangri La Tbilisi team embarked on an exhilarating hike from Juta in the Kazbegi region to Roshka in Khevsureti. This journey, which they had been planning for some time, took place on June 27th and showcased both their dedication and the stunning beauty of Georgia’s mountainous regions.

Starting at an elevation of 2,200 meters, the team ascended to a breathtaking 3,240 meters, covering a challenging 18 kilometers. The trek was filled with camaraderie, breathtaking views, and a profound sense of accomplishment as they traversed the rugged terrain together.

The highlight of the journey was proudly displaying the Shangri La logo upon reaching Roshka, symbolizing not only their physical achievement but also their unity and spirit. This adventure not only strengthened their bonds but also provided a memorable experience that highlighted the remarkable beauty of Georgia’s landscapes.

Shangri La, with its mountain-inspired logo, perfectly encapsulates the essence of reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively. This hike was a testament to the team’s determination and the enduring allure of adventure.

“We sincerely thank the Shangri La Tbilisi team for their excellent idea, teamwork and dedication. You guys are great, I wish you to climb even higher and reach new peaks together” – said Helen Keane, General Manager of Shangri La Tbilisi, with words of gratitude.

On September 18, Shangri La Tbilisi Casino celebrated its anniversary with an evening that perfectly combined elegance, music, and entertainment. As one of the most recognized casinos in Tbilisi, Shangri La brought together friends, partners, and international guests for a night filled with unforgettable experiences.

The event opened with a warm welcome: guests enjoyed a festive reception with fine drinks and a beautifully presented buffet, followed by live photo and video coverage that captured the vibrant atmosphere from the very start. The celebration continued with creative performances, including immersive street theater and aerial acrobatics, proving once again why Shangri La is a leader in premium entertainment in Georgia.

Helen Keane, General Manager of Shangri La Tbilisi, highlighted the significance of the evening: “It was a wonderful evening, full of energy and joy. Our guests enjoyed a spectacular program — from live performances to unique artistic moments at the entrance. The warm atmosphere and many kind words we received are the best reward for our team.”

One of the highlights of the night was the live ABBA tribute concert made by ABBIA band, which filled the hall with energy and excitement. Combined with a dynamic dance show, it created an atmosphere of international celebration and positioned Shangri La not only as a casino in Georgia, but also as a cultural hub where music, gastronomy, and hospitality come together.

The celebration also reflected a broader trend in the gaming world: casinos are increasingly seen as part of the entertainment and hospitality industry. As Keane explained, guests now view Shangri La in the same way they view concerts, fine dining, or live theater — as a place to enjoy emotions, atmosphere, and memorable experiences.

For Shangri La Tbilisi, the anniversary was not only a milestone, but also a statement of its ongoing commitment to excellence. The evening underlined the brand’s philosophy of balancing luxury with responsibility, offering guests world-class service while ensuring trust, safety, and hospitality.

With its mix of gaming, fine dining, and live shows, Shangri La continues to set the standard for entertainment in Tbilisi and remains one of the city’s most vibrant destinations. Guests left the celebration with unforgettable memories, confirming once again that Shangri La is truly “the biggest game in town.”