The United Arab Emirates is entering a new era of tourism and entertainment with the groundbreaking Ras Al Khaimah casino project. This landmark development by Wynn Resorts marks the first licensed gaming facility in the UAE, signaling a significant shift in the region’s approach to entertainment and tourism. Set to open in 2027, the $3.8 billion integrated resort on Al Marjan Island promises to transform Ras Al Khaimah’s economy while establishing a new standard for luxury hospitality in the Middle East.
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Project Overview: A New Chapter for UAE Tourism
The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort represents a historic milestone as the UAE’s first integrated resort with licensed gaming facilities. Located on the picturesque Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, this development is approximately 50 minutes from Dubai International Airport and just 15 minutes from RAK International Airport, making it easily accessible to both international visitors and UAE residents.
In October 2024, Wynn Resorts was granted the UAE’s first commercial gaming operator license by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), a newly established independent executive entity within the UAE federal government. This regulatory breakthrough paves the way for the introduction of regulated gaming activities in a region where gambling has traditionally been prohibited.
“We are underway with the construction of our resort in Ras Al Khaimah and look forward to being a key partner in the development of its tourism economy.”
– Wynn Resorts statement following license approval
Development Status and Timeline
Construction of the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort is progressing rapidly, with the project on track for an early 2027 opening. As of late 2024, more than 55% of the concrete structure has been completed, with the tower rising to approximately its 26th floor. Both exterior and interior work are underway in many areas of the resort.
Key Development Milestones
- January 2022: Initial project announcement
- September 2023: Appointment of key contractors
- October 2024: Gaming license granted by GCGRA
- Late 2024: 55% of concrete structure completed
- 2025-2026: Interior finishing and landscaping
- Early 2027: Scheduled grand opening
Key Stakeholders
- Wynn Resorts: Primary developer and operator
- Marjan: Master developer of freehold properties in RAK
- RAK Hospitality Holding: Local hospitality partner
- ALEC Engineering: Main construction contractor
- Bauer International FZE: Foundation specialist
- GCGRA: Regulatory authority overseeing gaming
The project has secured substantial financing, including a $2.4 billion construction facility arranged with local and international banks. Additionally, Wynn Resorts has expanded its land holdings in the area, acquiring an additional 70 acres on Island Three for potential future development.
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Resort Features and Amenities
The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort is designed to deliver an unparalleled luxury experience, combining world-class accommodations, dining, entertainment, and gaming facilities. The resort will feature a distinctive curved architecture that has become synonymous with the Wynn brand, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.
Accommodations
- 1,542 rooms, suites, and villas
- Exclusive Enclave with 313 ultra-luxury suites
- Private pools and beach access
- Floor-to-ceiling Gulf views
- Interiors inspired by regional art
Gaming Facilities
- 20,900-square-meter main casino
- Sky gaming casino on the 22nd floor
- 225,000 square feet total gaming area
- First licensed casino in the UAE
- World-class gaming technology
Dining & Entertainment
- 22 restaurants and lounges
- Two-level steakhouse by Alain Ducasse
- Delilah supper club from Las Vegas
- Beach club and nightclub
- Nightly laser and light shows
Wellness & Recreation
- Five-star spa and wellness center
- 12 swimming pools
- 420-meter private beach
- Fitness center with latest equipment
- Water sports and activities
Business & Events
- 7,500-square-meter convention center
- State-of-the-art meeting facilities
- Ballrooms and event spaces
- Business center services
- Wedding and celebration venues
Additional Amenities
- 15,000 square meters of luxury retail
- 101-berth marina for superyachts
- Theater for live performances
- Sea of Dreams water show
- Aft Cocktail Deck with panoramic views
Economic Impact on Ras Al Khaimah
The Wynn Al Marjan Island project represents the largest foreign direct investment of its kind in Ras Al Khaimah’s history. This multibillion-dollar development is expected to have far-reaching economic benefits for the emirate and the broader UAE economy.
Job Creation
The resort is projected to generate at least 4,000 direct jobs, with thousands more indirect positions created through supporting industries and services. These employment opportunities span various sectors, including hospitality, food and beverage, retail, entertainment, security, and administration.
During the construction phase, the project is employing thousands of workers, contributing to the local economy even before the resort opens its doors. Once operational, the resort will provide long-term, stable employment for both UAE nationals and expatriates.
Tourism Growth
Ras Al Khaimah has been steadily building its tourism sector, with 1.1 million visitors in 2019 and aims to double this number in the coming years. The Wynn resort is expected to be a major catalyst in achieving this goal, attracting a new segment of high-end tourists interested in luxury gaming experiences.
According to a survey conducted over six months with 2,000 participants (81% from Ras Al Khaimah), over half (54%) recognize that the casino will attract new tourists interested in gaming, boosting local tourism and economic growth.
Expected Economic Impact
4.5
Overall Impact Rating
Job Creation
4.5/5
Tourism Growth
4.8/5
Real Estate Value
4.4/5
Infrastructure Development
4.2/5
Local Business Boost
4.5/5
Real Estate and Investment
The development is already having a significant impact on the local real estate market. According to the survey, 60% of participants anticipate a notable increase in local real estate prices due to the Wynn Resorts development, signaling confidence in its economic ripple effects.
The project is also attracting additional foreign direct investment to Ras Al Khaimah, as businesses position themselves to benefit from the increased tourism and economic activity expected to follow the resort’s opening.
Infrastructure Development
To support the increased tourism and economic activity, Ras Al Khaimah is investing in infrastructure improvements, including transportation networks, utilities, and public services. These enhancements will benefit not only visitors but also residents of the emirate.
The development of Al Marjan Island itself, which will eventually have 8,000 hotel keys, 12,000 residential units, and 600 holiday villas, represents a significant infrastructure investment that complements the Wynn resort project.
Regulatory Framework for Gaming in the UAE
The introduction of licensed gaming in the UAE represents a significant shift in the country’s approach to entertainment and tourism. The regulatory framework has been carefully developed to ensure responsible gaming while maximizing economic benefits.
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA)
Established in September 2023, the GCGRA is the federal entity responsible for regulating, licensing, and supervising all commercial gaming activities in the UAE. Led by gaming industry veterans, the authority has developed a comprehensive regulatory framework based on best practices from Singapore and the United States.
“Commercial gaming” refers to “any game of chance, or combination of chance and skill, where an amount of money, in cash or cash equivalents, is wagered – placed as a bet – for the purpose of winning a sum of money or other valuable items.”
– UAE General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority
Licensing Process
The GCGRA has implemented a rigorous licensing process to ensure that only qualified operators are permitted to offer gaming services in the UAE. Wynn Resorts received the first commercial gaming facility license in October 2024 following what the authority described as “a diligent and extensive review.”
The licensing framework includes strict requirements for financial stability, operational integrity, responsible gaming practices, and anti-money laundering measures. Operators must demonstrate their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and ethical conduct.
Regulatory Oversight
The GCGRA provides ongoing oversight of all licensed gaming operations to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. This includes regular audits, inspections, and monitoring of gaming activities to prevent fraud, protect consumers, and maintain the integrity of the gaming industry.
The authority has emphasized that engaging in, conducting, or enabling commercial gaming activities within the UAE without approval from the GCGRA is illegal and subject to severe penalties. This applies not only to operators but also to consumers who participate in unlicensed gaming activities.
Types of Regulated Gaming Activities
According to the GCGRA’s website, the authority regulates several types of commercial gaming activities in the UAE:
Casino Gaming
Traditional casino games including table games, electronic gaming machines, and poker. The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort will feature a 20,900-square-meter main casino and a sky gaming casino on the 22nd floor.
Lottery
In July 2024, the GCGRA awarded a license to The Game LLC to operate the UAE’s first authorized lottery under the banner UAE Lottery, offering a diverse range of games.
Other Gaming Activities
The regulatory framework also covers internet gaming, sports wagering, and other forms of commercial gaming that may be introduced in the future.
Public Reception and Cultural Considerations
The introduction of licensed gaming in the UAE has generated a range of reactions from local residents, international observers, and industry stakeholders. Understanding these perspectives is crucial for assessing the project’s long-term prospects and potential challenges.
Positive Perspectives
- Economic Optimism: 56% of survey respondents believe the project will substantially boost tourism revenue and create employment opportunities.
- Tourism Diversification: 54% recognize that the casino will attract new tourists interested in gaming experiences.
- Investment Confidence: 60% anticipate a notable increase in local real estate prices due to the development.
- International Recognition: Many see the project as enhancing Ras Al Khaimah’s global profile as a luxury destination.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Local residents anticipate better roads, utilities, and public services as a result of the development.
Concerns and Challenges
- Social Impact: 34% of survey respondents expressed concerns about potential social impacts, such as gambling addiction.
- Cultural Integrity: 28% prioritize preserving local cultural integrity amidst development.
- Regulatory Uncertainty: Some observers question how the new regulatory framework will evolve over time.
- Regional Competition: The project faces competition from established gaming destinations in other regions.
- Implementation Challenges: Introducing gaming in a region with no prior industry experience presents operational hurdles.
Cultural and Religious Considerations
The introduction of gaming in the UAE represents a significant departure from traditional practices in the Gulf region, where gambling has historically been prohibited under Islamic law. The regulatory framework and operational practices at the Wynn resort will need to balance economic objectives with respect for local cultural and religious sensitivities.
According to a Marjan representative, the gaming area will be designed as “an interesting source of entertainment for tourists, in keeping with the cultural traditions of the UAE.” This suggests a thoughtful approach to integrating gaming activities within the local cultural context.
“We have spent the past year meticulously programming and concepting Wynn Al Marjan Island, carefully considering its unique location. I am incredibly proud of our design and development team’s ability to impart our legacy of rich, thoughtful design into a sun-soaked beachside resort that will delight customers, new and old.”
– Craig Billings, Wynn Resorts CEO
Global Context: Comparing to Similar Projects
To understand the significance and potential of the Ras Al Khaimah casino project, it’s helpful to compare it to similar integrated resorts in other regions that have successfully combined luxury hospitality with gaming entertainment.
| Property | Location | Investment | Gaming Area | Rooms | Key Features | Economic Impact |
| Wynn Al Marjan Island | Ras Al Khaimah, UAE | $3.8 billion | 225,000 sq ft | 1,542 | First UAE casino, beachfront location, 22 restaurants | 4,000+ jobs, tourism catalyst |
| Marina Bay Sands | Singapore | $5.6 billion | 160,000 sq ft | 2,561 | SkyPark, ArtScience Museum, luxury shopping | Transformed Singapore tourism |
| Wynn Las Vegas | Las Vegas, USA | $2.7 billion | 189,000 sq ft | 2,716 | Lake of Dreams show, golf course, fine dining | Major Las Vegas employer |
| Wynn Palace | Macau, China | $4.2 billion | 420,000 sq ft | 1,706 | Performance Lake, SkyCabs, art collection | Key contributor to Macau economy |
| Resorts World Sentosa | Singapore | $4.4 billion | 160,000 sq ft | 1,600 | Universal Studios, Marine Life Park, waterpark | 13,000+ jobs, tourism driver |
Lessons from Singapore’s Integrated Resort Model
Singapore’s experience with integrated resorts offers valuable insights for the Ras Al Khaimah project. After legalizing casino gaming in 2005, Singapore developed a regulatory framework that has been widely praised for balancing economic benefits with social responsibility. The introduction of Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa transformed Singapore’s tourism industry, attracting high-spending visitors and creating thousands of jobs.
The UAE’s regulatory approach appears to draw inspiration from Singapore’s model, particularly in terms of strict licensing requirements and responsible gaming measures. Like Singapore, the UAE is positioning gaming as one component of a broader integrated resort experience that includes luxury accommodations, fine dining, entertainment, and retail.
Location and Accessibility
The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort is strategically located on Al Marjan Island, a man-made archipelago in Ras Al Khaimah. This location offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf while providing convenient access for visitors from across the UAE and international travelers.
Transportation Options
- By Air: 15 minutes from RAK International Airport, 50 minutes from Dubai International Airport
- By Road: Accessible via the E11 highway, approximately 45 minutes from Dubai
- By Sea: 101-berth marina accommodating superyachts up to 85 meters
- Local Transport: Taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle buses available
Al Marjan Island
Al Marjan Island extends 4.5 kilometers into the Arabian Gulf and consists of four coral-shaped islands. Once fully developed, the island will feature:
- 8,000 hotel keys across different categories
- 12,000 residential units
- 600 holiday villas
- 7.8 kilometers of pristine beaches
- 2.7 square kilometers of reclaimed land
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ras Al Khaimah Casino Project
When will the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort open?
The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort is scheduled to open in early 2027. Construction is currently underway, with more than 55% of the concrete structure completed as of late 2024.
Will this be the first casino in the UAE?
Yes, this will be the first licensed casino in the United Arab Emirates. In October 2024, Wynn Resorts received the UAE’s first commercial gaming facility license from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
How many jobs will the project create?
The project is expected to generate at least 4,000 direct jobs, with thousands more indirect positions created through supporting industries and services. These employment opportunities will span various sectors, including hospitality, food and beverage, retail, entertainment, security, and administration.
What gaming activities will be available at the resort?
The resort will feature a 20,900-square-meter main casino and a sky gaming casino on the 22nd floor, with a total gaming area of 225,000 square feet. While specific details about the types of games have not been fully disclosed, traditional casino games including table games, electronic gaming machines, and poker are expected to be available.
How is the UAE regulating gaming activities?
The UAE established the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in September 2023 to regulate, license, and supervise all commercial gaming activities in the country. The regulatory framework is based on best practices from Singapore and the United States, with a focus on responsible gaming, consumer protection, and maintaining the integrity of the gaming industry.
Who are the key stakeholders in the project?
The project is being developed through a joint venture between Wynn Resorts (the primary developer and operator), Marjan (the master developer of freehold properties in RAK), and RAK Hospitality Holding. ALEC Engineering is the main construction contractor, and Bauer International FZE is handling the foundation work.
The Future of Tourism and Entertainment in Ras Al Khaimah
The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort represents a transformative development for Ras Al Khaimah and the broader UAE tourism landscape. As the first integrated resort with licensed gaming facilities in the region, it marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s evolution as a global tourism destination.
With its world-class amenities, luxury accommodations, and diverse entertainment offerings, the resort is poised to attract a new segment of high-end tourists while creating thousands of jobs and stimulating economic growth throughout the emirate. The careful regulatory approach being implemented by the GCGRA aims to ensure that these economic benefits are realized while maintaining social responsibility and respect for local cultural values.
As construction progresses toward the anticipated 2027 opening, the Ras Al Khaimah casino project continues to generate excitement and discussion among industry observers, potential visitors, and local residents. Its success will likely influence future tourism development not only in the UAE but throughout the Gulf region.
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