Summary
- Wynn Resorts is set to open its doors in March 2027, as confirmed by the Marjan CEO in an exclusive interview with the local media.
- The Wynn Resorts project is set to become a cornerstone of Ras Al Khaimah's economy.
- Wynn is considering expanding with a new casino floor, as more international bidders show interest in securing various licenses from the regulator.
Marjan Island is eagerly anticipating the debut of the Wynn Integrated Resort, and it's all set to open right on schedule, according to CEO Abdulla Al Abdouli in his conversation with Khaleej Times. Al Abdouli shared that while there is still plenty to be done, the progress so far has been impressive. With March 2027 marked on the calendar as the finish line, he expressed solid confidence in meeting this target. This landmark project, the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates, promises to not only enhance the local landscape but also drive significant economic growth.
Wynn Resorts is arriving in time for the 2027 deadline
Al Abdouli believes with full conviction that the integrated resort will profoundly impact the economy of the United Arab Emirates, particularly in Ras Al Khaimah, where this ambitious project takes root. Sharing his thoughts in a recent publication, he expressed: This is among the grandest endeavors ever undertaken in the UAE, eagerly awaited across the region. It promises to introduce 1,542 hotel rooms and over 22 dining and entertainment venues, significantly boosting the flow of tourists to the emirate. The resort is set to open a multitude of new business opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah, intertwining with the local economy as a direct result of this development. Conversations about a second Wynn Resorts casino have started, although nothing has been finalized just yet. While this unfolds, Wynn Resorts, in collaboration with RAK Hospitality Holding, is investing a staggering $3.9 billion into bringing this vision to life, anticipating substantial returns. Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, predicts that the UAE's gaming market could reach a staggering $5 billion, distinctly outstripping their current investments. Yet, Wynn Resorts may soon have company on this stage, as MGM Resorts International is also in the race to secure a license from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority to open its own casino in the UAE.
Other bidders looking to enter the emerging gaming market in the UAE
Though plans remain uncertain, the regulator has yet to announce any decision on approving the request. It's likely that the GCGRA will hold off until after the first Wynn Resorts casino opens its doors. Meanwhile, beyond the realm of casino operators, Yolo Group, a global cryptocurrency gaming powerhouse with interests in the land-based sector, is also vying for two B2B vendor licenses from the regulator. This ambition was recently shared by Tim Heath, the group’s leader.
