Being first-to-market in an emerging market is a huge advantage in any industry, but it’s especially advantageous in the land-based casino business. That’s why the recent news that Wynn Resorts has been named the first recipient of a United Arab Emirates (UAE) casino license by the country’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
The news of Wynn’s new license isn’t especially surprising, however, as construction is already well underway on the company’s Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort, located in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), UAE. Located in UAE’s largest city, and about 65 miles from Dubai, the Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort is a multi-billion dollar project that will combine a casino floor, retail space, and a 1,000-room hotel.
UAE’s first land-based casino is a joint venture between Wynn Resorts, Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding. In comments reported on by iGamingBusiness.com, Marjan chief executive Abdulla Al Abdooli voiced his enthusiasm for the project in “We are partnering with Wynn Resorts, one of the world’s most renowned integrated resort companies, which has a strong track record of developing luxury destinations with exceptional accommodation, dining, entertainment concepts and gaming facilities.”
Wynn CEO Craig Billings was similarly enthusiastic about the project location on the man-made island calling it, “an ideal location” and a, “pristine setting.”
While Wynn is the first gaming operator to be awarded a UAE gaming license, they won’t likely be the last. Early in September, MGM Resorts filed an application for a UAE gaming license that is still under consideration.