Wynn Resorts has made history by securing the UAE’s first commercial gaming license, marking a significant milestone for the country. The Las Vegas-based casino giant, in partnership with Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding, is developing a luxury resort on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. This high-profile project, currently under construction, represents a joint venture aimed at creating a world-class destination for luxury and entertainment.
Wynn's Al Marjan Island project aligns with the UAE’s recent push to diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a premier global tourism and trade hub. Last month, the UAE established a federal authority to oversee responsible gaming, bringing in seasoned professionals from the U.S. gaming industry to lead the initiative.
The development of commercial gaming in the UAE occurs in the context of increasing economic competition across the GCC region, particularly with Saudi Arabia, which has been making its own moves to attract international investment. The UAE’s recent liberal legal reforms further reinforce its efforts to sustain its role as a leading center for trade, tourism, and finance in the region.
RAK’s government communications office, RAKTDA, and RAK Hospitality Holding have yet to comment on the development. However, the Wynn project signals a transformative era in UAE hospitality, setting a new standard for luxury and entertainment in the Gulf.
