Summary
- Wynn Resorts is enthusiastically exploring the idea of establishing a second integrated resort in the UAE, which may feature a casino.
- Should this project advance and a casino comes to life, Wynn will hold complete control over its operations.
- The company has addressed the initial reports, asserting that they will hold off on any decisions until the first property is officially launched.
Wynn Resorts has claimed the exclusive opportunity to develop the very first integrated resort in the United Arab Emirates, which is highly anticipated to include a casino floor. Despite the UAE's hesitance to grant a second license for such a venture, with MGM Resorts International waiting in the wings after placing its own bid in 2024, Wynn Resorts might be on the verge of advancing plans for a second remarkable property.
Wynn Resorts eyeing possible second IR in UAE
Wynn Resorts and the United Arab Emirates are already poised to take their partnership further with plans for a second resort, in addition to the eagerly anticipated Ras Al Khaimah, set to debut in early 2027. News of this second venture is just beginning to reach the public, thanks to recent disclosures. Set to also rise on Al Marjan Island, this second integrated resort will be an impressive addition, stretching across 593,870 square feet. The agreement reveals that if a casino becomes part of the second resort, Wynn or one of its affiliates will hold the exclusive reins over its operations. This development was first reported by Arabian Gulf Business Insight, which broke the news. While another resort might not come as a complete surprise, no one expected Wynn Resorts to move forward with it so swiftly. The company had hinted at expanding its footprint with more properties, but a second full-fledged resort was not anticipated to follow the original development so soon. In response to inquiries from AGBI, Wynn’s Chief Communications Officer, Michael Weaver, remarked that, while there are plans, nothing will be set in stone until the completion of the first resort. Ras Al Khaimah offers a substantial opportunity to fuel our growth in the region, and our global expansion won't be held back by any non-compete clauses, he assured.