As the sun sets on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, a groundbreaking development is underway, marking a significant milestone in Ras Al Khaimah's landscape. With final details taking shape for the upcoming project, one of the world's largest casino operators will unveil the $2 billion Wynn Marjan Island Resort and Casino. This ambitious venture has ignited a wave of excitement within the nation's hospitality and tourism sectors, set to redefine luxury experiences in United Arab Emirates.
Wynn Ras Al Khaimah
The Wynn Resort on Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, is a highly anticipated project by the developer with the same name, a leading operator of luxury resorts and casinos. Headquartered out of Las Vegas, their portfolio includes the famous Wynn Las Vegas, Encore Boston Harbor Casino Hotel, Wynn Palace, and Wynn Macau.
Set to open its doors in early 2027 with construction already underway, the project marks the largest foreign direct investment in the emirate, aligning with the UAE's economic diversification goals. The resort's inclusion of a world-class casino is particularly remarkable in a region where gambling is traditionally outlawed, signalling a significant shift in the Gulf's tourism and entertainment landscape.
The landmark development puts Ras Al Khaimah on the global map as a premier tourist destination and also marks the first casino venture in the Middle East. The strategic location on Marjan Island, known for its picturesque views and superb beaches, enhances its appeal to international visitors seeking luxury experiences. The resort aims to offer the best of entertainment, hospitality, and leisure, catering to travellers and gaming enthusiasts globally
The Wynn Resort on Marjan Island is a transformative development that will elevate Ras Al Khaimah's status as a luxury travel destination and set a precedent for the region's approach to tourism and entertainment. With the grand opening on the horizon, the resort is poised to reshape hospitality standards in the Middle East, offering guests premium experiences aligned with the Wynn brand.
About Marjan Island
Marjan Island is a set of four distinct coral-shaped islands set against the backdrop of the Arabian Peninsula and enclosed by the Yanis and Jais Mountains. It extends 4.5 kilometres into the sea and spans an area of 2.7 million square metres of reclaimed land. The construction was overseen by the Al Marjan Island Company in collaboration with RAK Tourism. Its charm lies in the panoramic views of the Gulf and the inviting beaches that adorn its shores.
The centrepiece of Marjan Island – Wynn Resort – marks the developer's first foray into beach resort development on an international scale. Guests will be treated to a stunning setting that combines luxury accommodations, world-class amenities, and access to the island's 7.8 kilometres of sandy beaches.
As Marjan Island evolves, its leisure and beachfront living appeal grow with it as well. With plans for 8,000 hotel keys spanning various categories, complemented by 12,000 residential units and 600 holiday villas, the island will offer a range of hospitality and lifestyle experiences unmatched in the region. Visitors can look forward to enjoying everything the place has to offer against the backdrop of stunning coastal vistas, making Marjan Island a coveted destination within the UAE.
Wynn Marjan Island Resort & Casino
Inspired by Al Marjan Island's serene seascape, the resort's design exudes elegance, offering 1,500 rooms, suites, and villas. Visitors can anticipate nightly laser shows, theatrical productions, and captivating displays. The resort is perched on a vast plot spanning nearly 250,000 square metres and offers views of the Arabian Gulf, sandy beaches, and a marina, all designed with sustainability in mind.
The resort will be the epicentre of extraordinary experiences, with a shopping mall, a spa, over 10 dining venues, a gaming area, a meeting and convention centre, and entertainment facilities. Notably, the casino is expected to be larger than the Wynn Las Vegas, their flagship gaming venue.
The Ras Al Khaimah Wynn Resort will set a new standard in luxury hospitality, elevating the emirate's appeal as a global tourist destination. This collaboration is a milestone in the region's tourism sector, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to maintaining its reputation as a tourism hotspot in the Middle East.
How is the UAE building a Casino?
Wynn Resorts' decision to venture into Ras Al Khaimah coincides with the establishment of a new division by the RAK Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), dedicated to regulating integrated resorts. The primary focus of this division is to create a robust framework that ensures responsible gaming practices across all levels of operation. This initiative underscores the commitment to promoting ethical and sustainable gaming practices within the emirate.
By drawing inspiration from established gambling regulations in the US and Singapore, the UAE wishes to create a conducive environment for the casino industry to thrive. Additionally, the implementation of reasonable tax rates and licensing structures reflects a strategic approach to balancing economic growth with social considerations.
The UAE has recently announced the formation of a new governmental entity, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). Tasked with introducing a regulatory framework for both national lottery and commercial gaming activities, the GCGRA comprises leading industry figures with expertise in global best practices for gaming regulation. Their mandate is to establish a well-regulated gaming environment, enforcing strict guidelines and maintaining the highest standards of compliance.
With a vision dedicated to upholding integrity and safety in the gaming industry, the GCGRA ensures that all stakeholders operate within a framework that prioritises responsible gaming.
Influence on Economy and Tourism
The partnership of Wynn Resorts with Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding to establish a presence in Ras Al Khaimah highlights the UAE's drive to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment across sectors. The resort's arrival aligns with Ras Al Khaimah's vision of hosting over 3.8 million visitors by 2027, as evidenced by the 1.13 million overnight hotel guests recorded in 2022.
Colliers International forecasts the Wynn Marjan Island Resort and Casino could draw in 5.5 million tourists by 2030, with many analysts predicting that it could go beyond that number. This ambitious goal highlights the substantial influence anticipated from this project on Ras Al Khaimah's tourism sector.
Regional Impact
The impact of the Wynn Marjan Island Resort and Casino stretches far beyond Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE, resonating throughout the entire Gulf region with the multibillion-dollar investment promising a significant economic boost. As the MENA region's first integrated resort, Wynn Resort symbolises the Gulf's strategic evolution, steering towards economic diversification beyond oil dependency. This project not only attracts foreign direct investment (FDI) into tourism and entertainment but also showcases the Gulf's progressive vision for economic growth.
By integrating gaming within hospitality and economy, the UAE will enhance its tourism and entertainment offerings, attracting visitors from Gulf countries and bolstering regional tourism. The surge in tourist arrivals stimulates sectors like hospitality, retail, and transportation, benefiting not just Ras Al Khaimah but neighbouring emirates as well. The UAE's successful venture into integrated resorts may set a precedent for other Gulf nations, inspiring similar diversification efforts to propel economies forward.
This initiative presents a unique opportunity for travellers worldwide to explore UAE’s rich cultural heritage, awe-inspiring landscapes, and luxury offerings.
Ras Al Khaimah's Real Estate Boom
Since the debut of the Wynn in early 2022, Ras Al Khaimah, once a quiet emirate, has experienced a flurry of luxury development activity, predominantly centred on Al Marjan Island. This four-island archipelago, where the Wynn is situated, has become a focal point for upscale real estate ventures.
The Wynn's unveiling has sparked expectations of heightened demand for real estate in Ras Al Khaimah. As a premier tourist destination, the resort is poised to catalyse further development in the real estate sector, driving up property values and leading to a dynamic market environment across the emirate.
In addition to Wynn Resorts, Nobu Hospitality has also revealed plans for Nobu Al Marjan Island. The upscale development will bring to life luxury hotels and branded residences, further positioning Al Marjan Island as a hub for high-end hospitality and a prime investment destination.
Final Thoughts
Ras Al Khaimah is ramping up its tourism efforts, focusing on nature, adventure tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). With RAKTDA's Tourism Vision 2030, the emirate is prepared to lead in sustainable tourism. The Wynn Marjan Island Resort and Casino marks a pivotal moment in the UAE's tourism and entertainment evolution. As the project progresses towards the grand opening, Ras Al Khaimah's tourism landscape will witness a major shift, generating significant economic value through job creation and growth in allied business sectors.
