A 19th-Century Palace on the Water's Edge
Few gaming venues in the Mediterranean boast the aristocratic pedigree of the Dragonara Casino. Positioned at the very tip of the peninsula within the Westin resort estate, the casino is housed inside Palazzo Dragonara, a neoclassical summer palace constructed in 1870 for the Marquis Scicluna, one of Malta's prominent 19th-century bankers and philanthropists.
Surrounded by colonnaded verandas and classical stone balustrades, the palace was officially converted into Malta’s first licensed casino in July 1964. Today, The Westin Dragonara Resort stands as one of Malta's primary casino hotels, with records from the World Travel Awards documenting the property as a past nominee for Europe's Leading Casino Resort.
Gaming Floors & Salons
The Dragonara Casino combines historic palace architecture with contemporary international gaming amenities. The main gaming hall features ornate fresco-style ceiling details and maritime windows looking out toward the Mediterranean breakers, creating a unique visual experience rarely found in windowless, modern casino complexes.
The gaming facilities include:
- Classic Table Games: European and American Roulette wheels, Blackjack tables with side bets, Punto Banco, and Three Card Poker.
- Electronic Gaming Machines: More than 300 state-of-the-art slot machines and electronic roulette terminals from leading international manufacturers.
- VIP & High-Limit Salons: Dedicated private gaming suites reserved for high-stakes card play with personalized concierge service.
- Sports Lounge: High-definition multi-screens broadcasting live international football, tennis championships, and racing.
Visitor Rules, Entry Requirements & Age Limits
Under Maltese gaming legislation overseen by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the casino enforces strict entry criteria designed to promote responsible gaming:
| Requirement | Maltese Citizens | International Visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 25 Years Old | 18 Years Old |
| Identification | Valid Maltese ID Card or Passport | Valid National Passport or EU ID Card |
| Registration | Mandatory photo-ID check at entrance | Quick first-time digital registration |
| Dress Code | Smart-casual (no beachwear or sandals) | Smart-casual (jackets optional in evening) |
Responsible Gaming Practices
Dragonara Casino operates in accordance with the Malta Gaming Authority's player protection framework. Guests are encouraged to set personal deposit or time limits. Self-exclusion tools and assistance services are available on-site through the casino's trained player welfare representatives.
The Resort & Casino Synergy
For guests staying at The Westin Dragonara Resort, accessing the casino requires merely a two-minute garden walk through manicured palm pathways on the peninsula. The resort’s concierge can arrange private dining reservations inside the palace restaurant, which offers romantic tables positioned directly above the sea reef.