The United Arab Emirates’ first casino resort will open in September 2027, giving the country a major new tourism drawcard and adding another luxury development to the Gulf’s rapidly expanding hotel market.
Wynn Resorts confirmed the opening date for Wynn Al Marjan Island in its latest financial results. The announcement places the launch later than the first quarter timetable previously anticipated by the company.
Now under construction in Ras Al Khaimah, the multibillion dollar resort is being developed by Wynn Resorts in partnership with Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding.
The waterfront property will be Wynn’s first resort in the Middle East, its first beachfront resort and its largest property to date.
Plans include 1,530 rooms and suites, 22 restaurants, lounges and bars, a theatre, beach club, shopping promenade, marina and extensive meeting and event facilities. Guests will also have access to several swimming pools, a five star spa and a salon.
The 70 storey resort tower has already topped out, with work now focused on the façade, interiors and surrounding facilities.
The development will include the UAE’s first regulated commercial gaming operation, introducing a new tourism category to a country already known for luxury hotels, shopping and large scale entertainment.
Its arrival is expected to strengthen Ras Al Khaimah’s position as an alternative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, particularly for international visitors seeking resort based holidays.
Located on the man made Al Marjan Island, the resort will be approximately 50 minutes by road from Dubai International Airport. This will make it accessible to Australian visitors arriving on direct services to Dubai, as well as those combining Ras Al Khaimah with a wider UAE itinerary.
Wynn Resorts contributed a further US$48.1 million to the development during the second quarter of 2026. Its total cash contributions to the joint venture have now reached US$1.06 billion.
Ras Al Khaimah recorded more than 670,000 visitors during the first half of 2026, its strongest first half result to date. Tourism authorities expect Wynn Al Marjan Island to play a central role in expanding the emirate’s international profile after it opens.
The resort is scheduled to welcome its first guests in September 2027.
