To Rival Macau and Las Vegas, UAE to Open World's Largest Casino in 2027

An American hotel and casino operator, Wynn Resorts, has announced plans to open a casino claimed to be the largest in the world in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2027. Quoting Reuters, the casino licence was issued by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, the regulatory body recently established by the UAE government. The Las Vegas-based company is finalising a luxury integrated resort on Wynn Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah. The project is a joint venture between Wynn Resorts’ affiliate Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding. The Economist reports that, once completed, the complex is projected to become a world-class entertainment destination capable of rivaling global gambling hubs such as Macau and Las Vegas. The granting of the licence marks a milestone for the UAE. For years prior, gambling activity was banned across the conservative Gulf region. The move also ends the long-standing uncertainty over the country’s policy direction towards the casino industry in recent years. Opening the door to the gambling industry is part of Gulf economic competition dynamics, particularly with Saudi Arabia, which is aggressively transforming its economy. In recent years, the UAE has also launched a series of more liberal legal reforms. The reforms are aimed at maintaining its position as a major hub for trade, tourism, and finance in the Middle East. The presence of a giant casino in Ras Al Khaimah is viewed as part of the economy’s diversification strategy, while expanding the country’s tourism appeal.