Max Tappeiner, president of Wynn Al Marjan Island, believes the resort will elevate Ras Al Khaimah to the status of the fourth major gaming market worldwide.
Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2027, this multi-billion-dollar project is the first integrated gaming resort in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region and aims to redefine luxury and entertainment not only in the UAE but globally.
Tappeiner emphasized the significance of this development, marking it as Wynn Resorts’ inaugural gaming destination in the UAE and a major milestone for Ras Al Khaimah.
According to the local media Khaleej Times, Tappeiner expressed excitement about the opportunity with Al Marjan, noting that currently, there are only three major gaming markets in the world and this resort has the potential to become the fourth.
During a presentation at the ‘Future of Ras Al Khaimah Conference’ on Friday, Tappeiner shared images of the ongoing construction and highlighted the unique amenities that will set Wynn Al Marjan Island apart from other resorts. The facility will include luxury suites, a large casino, and a variety of entertainment options, such as top-tier restaurants, bars, a spa, and a beachfront day club. It will also feature a significant conference center for weddings and corporate events, attracting both leisure and business travelers.
Tappeiner pointed out the advantageous location of Wynn Al Marjan Island, which allows it to reach a vast population. With its opening, the resort will be able to connect with 96 percent of the world’s population within an eight-hour flight, with 76 percent of the global population within that range from Al Marjan itself. He noted the area’s high spending potential and concentration of wealth, providing a solid foundation for the resort’s success.
Earlier last month, Wynn Resorts was granted the UAE’s first commercial gaming operator’s license. However, the gaming regulator, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), has not provided additional details regarding the license awarded to Wynn Resorts.
Initially budgeted at $3.9 billion, the project’s costs have increased to $5.1 billion. The construction of Wynn Al Marjan Island has already transformed the emirate’s skyline.
The building has surpassed 90 meters in height, making it the tallest structure in Ras Al Khaimah. Work is progressing swiftly beyond the 15th floor as the resort takes shape on its prime beachfront location.
