Operator News
UAE – Wynn comments on Al Marjan Island casino
By Phil - 11 May 2022
Wynn Resorts has commented further on its planned multibillion-dollar integrated resort including a ‘gaming area’ on the man-made Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
Wynn CEO Craig Billings said: “We have moved quickly into design on our project in the UAE, and I grow more excited about the opportunity with each iteration of that design. The Island which is really a blank canvas for us presents amazing opportunities to do what we do best. From offshore large-scale water and light spectacles akin to the Lake of Dreams in Las Vegas, to a room product that takes advantage of the unique aspects of a beach side setting, I’m confident we are going to deliver something special to a market that is accustomed to paying a premium for luxury experiences.
“I can’t really opine on what the other Emirates may do with regard to legalization. That’s really in their hands. But I would point out that we not only compete but actually punch well above our weight in the most competitive market in the world, Las Vegas. So we don’t really — our underwrite of that opportunity presume that there would be competition, but I can’t tell you that we know of any now. But it’s not within my purview to forecast what the Emirates may do, what the other inlets may do.
The spectacular Al Marjan Island, already a leading tourism destination, is only 15 minutes from the Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 45 minutes from the Dubai International Airport. Comprising four islands, Al Marjan Island delights visitors with over 7.8 kilometers of sparkling beaches and 23 kilometers of waterfront in addition to world-class hotels and residential developments.
The current scope includes a 1,000+ room hotel, high-end shopping mall, a state-of-the-art meeting and convention facility, an exclusive spa, more than 10 restaurants and lounges, a wide array of entertainment choices, a gaming area, and other amenities.
Mr. Billings said at the time of the project’s launch: “Al Marjan Island is a pristine setting and an ideal greenfield location for us to create the one-of-a-kind guest experiences for which Wynn Resorts is renowned. The region offers tremendous potential for the hospitality and tourism industry, and we are excited about the prospect of developing an integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah.”
