Wynn Resorts’ $5 Billion Al Marjan Resort Scheduled to Open in 2027

Progress and Vision for Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort

Construction of the Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort in Ras Al Khaimah is advancing steadily, with developers maintaining their target to launch the resort by March 2027. This upcoming resort is set to be a pioneering destination in the Middle East and North Africa, uniquely combining gaming with various other leisure and entertainment offerings.

A $5 Billion Development Poised to Boost the Local Economy

Abdulla Al Abdouli, the head of Marjan—the leading developer behind the project—confirmed that the construction is on schedule, with 61 of the planned 70 floors already built. Valued between $3.9 billion and $5.1 billion, this ambitious resort is regarded as one of the UAE’s most significant development ventures. It’s expected to substantially enhance tourism and contribute significantly to the emirate’s economy.

Covering 60 hectares on a dedicated island in the Arabian Gulf, the complex will feature over 1,500 hotel rooms, more than 20 dining and drinking establishments, a spa, swimming pools, a marina, and a private beach. Central to the resort’s attractions is an expansive 20,900-square-meter casino, featuring a sky gaming zone. Additionally, plans include a 7,500-square-meter events center intended to accommodate both business conferences and entertainment events.

Recruitment efforts have begun, with nearly 80 positions currently open and a plan to increase the workforce to more than 300 employees by the end of the year. Al Abdouli emphasized that the resort will not only attract tourists but will also stimulate the development of nearby residential, retail, and service facilities, playing a crucial role in Ras Al Khaimah’s economic growth.

With the goal to welcome 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030, the emirate views Wynn Al Marjan as a key driver of tourism, especially given its proximity to Dubai and the likelihood of being the UAE’s first casino for some time. Experts estimate that the local gaming industry could generate between $5 billion and $8 billion in revenue, rivaling markets like the Las Vegas Strip.

Innovative Technology and Payment Options at Wynn Al Marjan

Beyond its scale, Wynn Al Marjan aims to incorporate state-of-the-art technology. Executives from Wynn Resorts have shared intentions to equip all gaming tables with smart technology to reduce dealer errors and enhance the speed of gameplay. Furthermore, the resort is seeking permission to accept cryptocurrency payments, which could position it among the most technologically advanced casinos worldwide.

This ambitious project also responds to increasing regional competition for international tourists, particularly with Saudi Arabia investing heavily in developing its own tourist destinations. In alignment with this vision, Ras Al Khaimah is progressing with RAK Central, a mixed-use development spanning 3.1 million square meters that includes business and residential spaces, slated for opening concurrently with Wynn Al Marjan.

Looking ahead, Wynn Resorts has reserved additional land on Al Marjan Island to potentially build another integrated resort or other major developments. While no official decisions have been announced, the company has hinted at expanding its footprint in Ras Al Khaimah over time and has even mentioned the possibility of taking its UAE operations public in the future.