Gaming in the UAE is set for a historic change as Wynn Al Marjan Island has received the first commercial gaming licence ever issued in the country. Granted by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), this Wynn Al Marjan Island casino license is a landmark development for Ras Al Khaimah — and for the region's entire tourism and entertainment landscape.
What Is Wynn Al Marjan Island?
Planned on the artificial archipelago of Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, Wynn Al Marjan Island will be a world-class beachfront resort. The project is operated by a joint venture between affiliates of Wynn Resorts, Marjan, and RAK Hospitality Holding.
Al Marjan Island is located approximately one hour's drive from Dubai, making it highly accessible to residents and visitors across the Emirates.
Resort Specifications
- Tower height: 300 metres - Rooms and suites: 1,542, plus 22 private villas - Total investment: USD 3.9 billion (AED 14.32 billion) - Expected opening: Spring 2027
The scale of the resort means it is expected to surpass Wynn Las Vegas in size — a remarkable benchmark that signals how seriously Wynn Resorts is approaching this UAE gaming opportunity.
UAE's First Casino: Amenities and Experiences
The resort will offer a theatre for unique live performances, daily light and laser displays, a luxury spa, and retail outlets from leading international designers. Dining concepts will span up to 22 venues, with the possibility of Michelin-starred restaurants — a hallmark of Wynn's global portfolio, which includes acclaimed names such as Mizumi and Wing Lei.
Speaking on the scope of the project, Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings underlined the significance and scale of what will become the UAE's only licensed commercial gaming venue.
A Game-Changer for Ras Al Khaimah Tourism
The GCGRA gaming license positions Wynn Al Marjan Island as a sole authorised casino operator in the UAE, at least for the foreseeable future. Authorities have indicated no immediate plans to issue additional licences, giving the resort a significant first-mover advantage in a market with enormous revenue potential.
For Ras Al Khaimah, this development adds powerful momentum to its ambitions as one of the Gulf's most exciting tourist destinations. The combination of a luxury beachfront location, world-class gaming, and a diverse entertainment offering marks a genuine step-change for the emirate's hospitality sector.
With construction advancing toward the 2027 target, Wynn Resorts is on course to redefine luxury tourism in the UAE.
