Wynn Resorts, a leading hotel and casino operator based in Las Vegas, has made history by securing the UAE’s first commercial gaming operator license, granted by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). The license will enable the development of the $4 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island resort in Ras Al Khaimah, marking the first integrated gaming resort in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Scheduled for completion in early 2027, this ambitious project aims to boost the UAE's tourism sector. It represents a significant milestone for Wynn Resorts and the evolving commercial gaming landscape in the UAE.

Wynn Resorts Secures UAE’s First Commercial Gaming License

Wynn Resorts has been awarded the UAE’s first commercial gaming operator license, a landmark decision that signals the emergence of regulated gaming within the country. The license was granted by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which oversees gaming activities in the UAE. This milestone will allow Wynn to operate gaming facilities within its Wynn Al Marjan Island resort, a pioneering project in Ras Al Khaimah. The GCGRA’s decision follows an extensive review process, underscoring the significance of this development for both Wynn and the broader gaming industry in the region.

Wynn Al Marjan Island: A $4 Billion Integrated Resort

Wynn Al Marjan Island, a $4 billion venture, is set to be the first integrated gaming resort in the MENA region. Located on a 62-hectare island extending into the Arabian Gulf, the resort will offer 1,542 luxurious rooms, suites, and 22 private villa estates. Slated to open in early 2027, it will feature not only gaming amenities but a broad array of non-gaming attractions, including restaurants, entertainment venues, and a beachfront setting. Wynn Al Marjan Island represents a significant investment in the UAE’s tourism economy, aiming to draw visitors from around the world.

A Strategic Partnership for Ras Al Khaimah’s Tourism Growth

The development of Wynn Al Marjan Island is a joint venture involving Wynn Resorts, Marjan, and RAK Hospitality Holding. This collaboration is pivotal in Ras Al Khaimah's vision to enhance its status as a global tourist destination. In its official statement, Wynn Resorts expressed gratitude to the GCGRA for its trust in granting the license, further stating its commitment to becoming a key partner in the UAE’s tourism sector. This project not only brings the prospect of gaming to the region but is also expected to have a transformative effect on Ras Al Khaimah’s economy and global appeal.

Wynn Resorts’ Commitment to Non-Gaming Attractions

While the gaming facilities of Wynn Al Marjan Island are highly anticipated, Wynn Resorts has made it clear that the resort will offer a wide range of non-gaming amenities to cater to a diverse audience. These include luxury accommodations, dining options, and world-class entertainment. This holistic approach aligns with Wynn’s reputation for blending entertainment, luxury, and gaming, ensuring that the resort appeals to both gaming enthusiasts and tourists seeking a high-end leisure experience.

A Significant Milestone for the UAE’s Evolving Gaming Landscape

The issuance of Wynn Resorts' gaming license marks the second major development overseen by the GCGRA, following the approval of the country’s first authorized lottery to Abu Dhabi-based The Game LLC earlier in 2023. As the UAE continues to diversify its economy, the introduction of regulated gaming is seen as part of a broader strategy to attract international tourists and investors. This development is expected to position the UAE as a competitive destination in the global gaming and hospitality market.

Construction and Future Prospects

Construction on Wynn Al Marjan Island commenced in early 2023, with the resort’s tower expected to reach its full height of 300 meters by the fourth quarter of 2025. The project is progressing on schedule, with its opening set for early 2027. Once operational, Wynn Al Marjan Island is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region, further cementing the UAE's status as a premier global tourism and entertainment hub.