Wynn Resorts has revealed the ‘design vision’ for its planned integrated resort in the United Arab Emirates sheikdom of Ras al-Khaimah. Named the Wynn Al Marjan Island, the resort is being developed with local partners Marjan LLC and RAK Hospitality Holding LLC.

Wynn Resorts has announced its first foray into the Middle East with plans for a "multi-billion" integrated resort project on Al Marjan Island in the United Arab Emirates.

Ever-evolving technology, revamped gaming floors and increased regulatory oversight are all causing a boost in demand for testing and certification. The CEO of Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) Australia, Ian Hughes, breaks down what operators and regulators are seeking out more – with each jurisdiction having its own specific requirements.

The UAE continues to rise to the forefront, with new announcements that the JW Marriott is going to be opening a property on Al Marjan island at Wynn Resorts’ new proposed integrated resort.

In its latest investment note, Deutsche Bank points out that Wynn Resorts' management believes the gaming operator will be the first to market in the UAE for a few years. They note that it's highly unlikely for every Emirate to have an integrated resort, citing reasons ranging from cultural nuances to population density and visitation.

Gaming operator Wynn Macau saw a strong third quarter in 2023, with total operating revenues up 609 percent yearly, to $819.8 million, a 6.5 percent increase over 2Q23.

The emirates of Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi will push ahead with plans to open casinos in the UAE after Dubai reportedly pulled out of the race, Bloomberg reported.

MGM Resorts International CEO Bill Hornbuckle expressed optimism that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) would become a hub for casino resorts and pointed out that the group's project is awaiting a nod from the Emirati authorities.

As a wealthy nation with a growing population and a reputation as a popular tourist destination, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) possesses significant growth potential in the gaming sector and major players from Asia and Las Vegas are likely to get a piece of the action. UAE-based lawyer Moses Charles Kivuna, breaks down the possible restrictions and restrictions for investors.

Wynn's foray into the UAE could be opening the gateway for a casino flourish in the desert, with expectations that the property could generate similar EBITDA to Wynn's Cotai strip property, says an analyst.