UAE Builds Gulf’s First $5B Casino
In a region where gambling has long been outlawed, the United Arab Emirates is taking one of its boldest economic gambles yet, a $5.1 billion casino resort on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah. Developed by Wynn Resorts, the project marks the Gulf’s first step into regulated gaming, setting the stage for what could be a defining shift in Middle Eastern tourism.
A High-Stakes Move in a Gambling-Free Region
For decades, gambling has been forbidden in Gulf countries for cultural and religious reasons. But as competition in tourism grows, the UAE wants to stand out. Wynn’s casino resort, planned to open in 2027, will be a major attraction for global visitors.
According to Wynn, 95% of the world’s population will be within an eight-hour flight of the resort, making it one of the most accessible gaming destinations on earth.
Al Marjan Island: The UAE’s New Tourism Frontier
Al Marjan Island is a man-made island about an hour’s drive from Dubai. It’s quieter and less developed than Dubai, surrounded by sea and desert landscapes. The Wynn resort will feature 1,500 rooms, 22 restaurants, 130,000 square feet of retail, 12 pools, and a private beach with gaming operations forming only a small portion of the resort’s total revenue.
But Wynn won’t stand alone. Brands like JW Marriott, Fairmont, and Nobu are already developing hotels nearby, with Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism board aiming to boost annual visitors from 1.3 million to 3.5 million by 2030.
A Push for Economic Revival
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the smaller and less wealthy emirates, with a GDP per person of about $31,000, compared to $79,000 in Abu Dhabi. The government hopes the new casino resort will bring jobs, better infrastructure, and more income.
However, not everyone will benefit equally. Dr. Meera Al-Hussein, a UAE scholar, noted that many local people are uncomfortable working in gambling or alcohol-related jobs, so most workers will come from abroad. Wynn has already received over 100,000 job applications, mostly from foreign workers.
Cultural Tensions and Economic Pragmatism
Some locals believe the casino is mainly for tourists and expats, not for Emiratis. While the government says the profits will help improve housing, healthcare, and education, some people doubt that the money will reach ordinary citizens.
Still, because speaking against the government is illegal in the UAE, public opposition is unlikely. The bigger question is: Will Ras Al Khaimah keep its advantage if other emirates open casinos too?
MGM Resorts has already applied for a casino license in Abu Dhabi, which could bring new competition.
The UAE’s Big Investment on Global Tourism
Despite these risks, Wynn remains confident. “We operate in the two most competitive markets in the world Las Vegas and Macau,” the company said. “We feel confident competing in an open market.”
By opening the Gulf’s first casino, the UAE could start a new chapter for the region, one that mixes luxury tourism with a carefully controlled gaming industry.
As Wynn expands globally, the UAE’s casino project shows that the future of gaming isn’t just in Las Vegas anymore, it’s going global.
