Casino news – The decision by Ras Al Khaimah to establish a casino in a jurisdiction where gambling is prohibited has caused quite a stir.

A remarkable development is on the horizon in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), United Arab Emirates (UAE), as one of the world’s leading casino operators has officially announced its upcoming project in the region.

In a press release issued in April, Wynn Resorts, a renowned Las Vegas-based company known for its luxurious resorts and casinos such as Encore Boston Harbor Casino Hotel and Wynn Palace in Macau, revealed that Wynn Al Marjan Island is set to open its doors in early 2027. The multi-billion-dollar project was initially unveiled by Wynn Resorts in January 2022 and is being developed in collaboration with local partners Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding.

This project marks a significant milestone not only for the UAE but for the entire Gulf region, where gambling is prohibited. As a result, all eyes will be on the offerings and experiences that the casino will provide to its esteemed patrons. Wynn Resorts’ entry into the market also aligns with the UAE’s efforts to diversify its economy by attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) across various sectors. Furthermore, the country aims to uphold its reputation as a prominent tourism destination in the Middle East and ensure an appealing quality of life for expatriate workers.

UAE’s Unprecedented Move: Approving a Casino within its Borders

The Wynn Al Marjan Island is set to mark Wynn Resorts’ debut in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Situated on Al Marjan Island, an artificial archipelago consisting of four islands located off the coast of RAK, the resort will boast 1,500 rooms, suites, and villas. It will provide a diverse range of entertainment options, a gaming facility, and 24 dining and lounge experiences. Al Marjan Island is conveniently positioned just a 15-minute drive away from RAK International Airport and approximately 45 minutes away from Dubai International Airport.

Wynn Resorts’ strategic move into RAK aligns with the establishment of a new division by the RAK Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), dedicated to regulating integrated resorts. RAKTDA has emphasized the utmost importance of ensuring “responsible gaming” at all levels as its primary objective for this new division.

Gambling Definition

Within the context of integrated hospitality and leisure, the term “gaming” typically refers to various forms of gambling, a feature commonly associated with casinos worldwide. However, the official statements from both Wynn Resorts and RAKTDA do not explicitly outline the specific games that will be permitted, the timeline for their implementation, or any potential restrictions on gaming activities for different groups, such as foreigners.

When contacted by Investment Monitor, neither Wynn Resorts nor RAKTDA were able to provide a more comprehensive definition of what “gaming” encompasses.

Robert Mogielnicki, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, DC, anticipates that, regardless of the eventual definition of “gaming,” the presence of a casino will attract a significant influx of tourists from both domestic and international markets.

He states, “This development may also foster new and sustainable foreign direct investment (FDI) flows, extending beyond traditional sectors such as oil and gas, real estate, construction, and financial services. By incorporating gaming into its economy, the UAE will introduce a fresh dimension to its tourism and entertainment offerings.”

RAK’s Rise: Transforming into a Thriving Tourism Hub in the UAE

Dubai, known as the commercial hub of the UAE, typically attracts the majority of tourists and foreign direct investment (FDI) entering the country. GlobalData’s data reveals that in 2022, Dubai accounted for 26 out of the UAE’s 41 FDI projects in the tourism sector. In contrast, RAK only managed to attract four tourism-related investments throughout the same 12-month period.

Nonetheless, RAK is actively striving to enhance its tourism sector by focusing on nature and adventure tourism, as well as meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). Through RAKTDA’s Tourism Vision 2030 strategy, the emirate aims to establish itself as a leading sustainable tourism destination in the region, with a target of welcoming over three million visitors annually by 2030.

Aside from the development by Wynn Resorts, the Al Marjan Island resort spokesperson informed Investment Monitor about the involvement of Nobu Hospitality in the project. Nobu Al Marjan Island is set to feature a luxurious hotel and branded residences.

The spokesperson further stated, “Additionally, Marriott International and Three Musketeers Hospitality, a UAE-based real estate developer, are collaborating to introduce Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts to Ras Al Khaimah with the upcoming Le Méridien Al Marjan Island Resort & Spa. By 2026, this addition will contribute 350 keys to the emirate’s growing hospitality offerings.”

The Domino Effect: Will Other Emirates Embrace RAK’s Casino Initiative?

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), gambling is strictly prohibited by federal law. Chapter six of the UAE’s penal code states that engaging in gambling activities can result in imprisonment for up to two years and a maximum fine of Dh50,000 ($13,600).

Currently, individuals seeking casinos in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region must travel to destinations such as Egypt or Lebanon. However, with the imminent opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island and the subsequent clarification of its gaming regulations, other emirates will closely observe the reception from both local residents and tourists. Whether these emirates would consider amending their laws or regulations to attract gaming and gambling organizations remains uncertain.

Mogielnicki remarks, “Emirati officials will need to establish clearer distinctions between gaming and gambling, considering the socio-religious sensitivities associated with the industry. I anticipate heavy regulation.”

Transforming RAK into a Middle Eastern equivalent of Las Vegas or Macau appears highly improbable. However, the establishment of this casino demonstrates that the emirate is seeking innovative ways to divert attention not only from Dubai and Abu Dhabi but also from countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar. If successful, foreign investors and local authorities in other emirates may seek to replicate RAK’s approach, potentially causing significant ripple effects throughout the region.

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