## Wynn Al Marjan Island: A $5.1 Billion Gamble to Redefine Luxury and Gaming in the UAE
Wynn Resorts, renowned for its opulent properties in Las Vegas and Macau, is taking its luxury and gaming experience to the UAE with a groundbreaking project: Wynn Al Marjan Island. This ambitious venture, boasting a staggering $5.1 billion budget, promises to redefine the region’s tourism landscape and catapult the UAE into the global gaming spotlight.
The project, a joint venture between Wynn Resorts, RAK Hospitality Holding LLC, and Al Marjan Island LLC, is more than just another luxurious resort; it represents a strategic move to establish the UAE as a major player in the world’s lucrative gaming industry. Wynn Al Marjan Island will be the first to capitalize on the UAE’s recent legalization of commercial gaming, holding the nation’s inaugural commercial gaming license. This unique position, coupled with the resort’s world-class amenities, will attract a diverse clientele, from affluent global travelers seeking high-roller experiences to domestic visitors looking for luxurious escapes.
The resort’s financial backing, a significant portion of which is financed through $2.40 billion in debt, speaks volumes about the project’s potential. The strong investor interest both domestically and internationally reflects the confidence in Wynn’s vision and the UAE’s growing appeal as a tourism destination. Wynn estimates a projected gross gaming revenue (GGR) between $1 billion and $1.67 billion, with 37% of that revenue anticipated to come from ultra-high-net-worth individuals (VVIPs). The company leverages its extensive network of over 100,000 high-end clients, expecting these VIPs to spend three times more per day at Wynn Al Marjan Island compared to their Las Vegas counterparts. This strategic targeting of the luxury market reinforces Wynn’s commitment to catering to the discerning traveler seeking exclusive experiences.
Beyond the Gaming Tables: A Paradise for Luxury Seekers
While the casino will undoubtedly be a major draw, Wynn Al Marjan Island offers a plethora of premium amenities and experiences catering to a broader spectrum of guests. The resort will feature 1,542 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, including 22 exclusive Villa Estates boasting stunning marina views. Beyond the luxurious accommodations, guests can indulge in a range of high-end offerings, including:
*
22 world-class dining, lounge, and bar options
catering to every palate and taste.*
A sprawling pool area with private cabanas
offering serene relaxation and breathtaking views.*
A 12,000-square-meter luxury shopping esplanade
where guests can indulge in retail therapy.*
A five-star spa
dedicated to rejuvenation and holistic wellness.*
A 7,500-square-meter event center
ideal for hosting extravagant weddings, conventions, and other special occasions.Strategic Location and Competitive Advantage
Wynn Al Marjan Island benefits from its strategic location just 20 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 50 minutes from Dubai International Airport, ensuring seamless access for international travelers. Furthermore, Wynn holds exclusive rights to operate a gaming facility in Ras Al Khaimah, providing a competitive advantage in the burgeoning UAE gaming industry. Under current regulations, each emirate is only permitted a single casino license, making Wynn’s dominance in Ras Al Khaimah’s gaming sector secure for the foreseeable future.
A Vision for the Future
Scheduled to open in early 2027, Wynn Al Marjan Island is poised to revolutionize the UAE’s tourism and entertainment landscape, attracting both domestic and international visitors seeking an unparalleled blend of luxury, entertainment, and gaming. The resort is expected to contribute significantly to the UAE’s economic diversification and its vision for a more vibrant tourism sector. This ambitious project reflects Wynn Resorts’ commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and establishing the UAE as a premier destination for luxury travel and gaming.
With its strategic location, exclusive gaming license, and unparalleled amenities, Wynn Al Marjan Island is set to be a game-changer, not only for the UAE’s tourism industry but also for the future of luxury gaming in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.