In a groundbreaking development poised to redefine luxury entertainment in the UAE, the CEO of Wynn Resorts, Craig Billings, has hinted at the imminent granting of the nation’s first-ever casino license. With the picturesque Northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah as its backdrop, the Wynn Al Marjan Island project has officially been confirmed, marking a historic milestone in the region’s hospitality landscape.
During the Q2 2023 earnings call, Billings unveiled the ambitious plans for the Wynn Al Marjan Island project, expressing confidence in the forthcoming licensing process. “We have all the necessary requirements to commence gaming activities in Al Marjan. I anticipate that we will receive our license for Ras Al Khaimah very soon,” he revealed, hinting at the anticipation surrounding this eagerly awaited venture.
Navigating the intricacies of UAE’s gaming regulations, Billings clarified the landscape, emphasizing the unique dynamics between individual Emirates and the UAE as a whole. “It’s essentially a 10, akin to a state and federal system,” he explained, assuaging concerns regarding the legalization process for gaming at the property.
The allure of Wynn Al Marjan Island extends far beyond its gaming offerings, promising a lavish retreat adorned with 1,500 rooms, suites, and villas, complemented by an array of culinary delights across 20 restaurants, indulgent spa experiences, captivating event spaces, and a theater hosting bespoke production shows. Designed for both extended stays and day trips, the resort aims to captivate residents from all seven Emirates, with nightly spectacles reminiscent of the iconic Las Vegas strip.
Amidst the excitement, the confirmation of the UAE’s first casino within the US$3.9 billion integrated resort heralds a new era of opulence and entertainment, set to debut in 2027. Occupying a modest four percent of the hotel’s total space, the casino promises an exclusive gaming experience amidst unparalleled luxury.
With a laser focus on the UAE project, Billings underscored its significance during the Q3 2022 earnings call, hailing it as a lucrative opportunity poised to deliver exceptional returns. “It represents a very high return opportunity for us that we anticipate. Therefore, it’s currently the main focus of our design and development efforts,” he affirmed, reaffirming the strategic importance of this flagship venture.
Billings further extolled the UAE’s allure, emphasizing its global appeal and unmatched connectivity. “The UAE is already a significant destination not only for the region but also for Europe, attracting visitors from the UK, Germany, and various other places worldwide,” he remarked, highlighting the vast customer acquisition potential and the expansion of the Wynn Resorts brand on a global scale.
As the curtain rises on this transformative venture, Billings aptly summarized the strategic significance, noting, “When we open that property, 95 percent of the world’s population will be within an eight-hour flight of a Wynn Resorts property,” underscoring the magnitude of this unparalleled opportunity in the heart of the UAE.
