Wynn Resorts receives commercial gaming operator’s licence in UAE

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THE SRAITS TIMES.  placeholder Credit: Lee Pei Jie

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DUBAI – Wynn Resorts said it has been awarded the first commercial gaming operator’s licence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by the country’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority.

The Las Vegas-based casino firm is developing a luxury resort on Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, the company said in a statement on Oct 4. The project, which is currently under construction, is a joint venture between Wynn, Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding.

The project is a major milestone for tourism in the region. The 1,542-room resort overlooks a white sandy beach. It features 22 bars and restaurants, as well as a theatre for shows. 

Casino operators have long sought to build a resort that would attract visitors from Europe, Asia and other markets. MGM Resorts International said in September that it had applied for a gambling licence for a property it is building in Abu Dhabi.

Wynn will be giving a presentation focused on its Al Marjan resort to investors on Oct 8. The company said in August that it had invested US$514 million (S$670 million) so far in the project. It is expected to open in 2027. BLOOMBERG

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