The 5 Most Anticipated Casino Resorts Coming to the UAE

The UAE is slowly preparing for a new kind of entertainment, luxury casino resorts. With Ras Al Khaimah leading the way and Dubai closely watching, several new projects are already underway. These resorts are expected to bring world-class tourism, high-end hotels, and entertainment that could put the UAE alongside places like Las Vegas and Macau.

1. Wynn Al Marjan Island - Ras Al Khaimah

The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort in Ras Al Khaimah is set to become the first casino-style destination in the Middle East. The project is worth around $3.9 billion and will include a luxury hotel, fine dining, a theater, and a gaming area.

Construction is well underway, and the resort is expected to open by 2027. Wynn will likely set the standard for how gaming and tourism can work together responsibly in the region.

2. Bluewaters Island - Dubai

Bluewaters Island, home to Ain Dubai and the famous Caesars Palace hotel, is another strong candidate for a future casino license. The island already has everything: luxury hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, and nightlife.

If casino licensing becomes official, Bluewaters could easily host one of the UAE’s first integrated resorts. For more tourism insights and updates on upcoming resorts, visit HazEmirates.com.

According to Reuters, the UAE has already established a federal gaming authority to regulate and oversee potential casino developments, showing clear progress toward opening this market.

3. The Mirage Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi may also join the movement with a high-end resort similar to The Mirage concept. While details remain private, developers are said to be exploring luxury hospitality and entertainment designs that could include gaming in the future.

Abu Dhabi’s focus is likely to stay on VIP travel, cultural tourism, and business visitors, with any gaming features being strictly controlled.

4. Dubai Creek Harbour Project

Dubai Creek Harbour is another possible location for future casino-style resorts. The massive waterfront project is already home to some of Dubai’s most modern buildings, hotels, and restaurants. 

If regulations permit, developers could transform one of these towers or entertainment hubs into an integrated resort that combines gaming, fine dining, and live events, all within minutes of Downtown Dubai.

5. Mina Al Arab Resorts - Ras Al Khaimah

Close to Wynn’s development, the Mina Al Arab area is also seeing fast growth. New five-star resorts, marinas, and luxury residences are being built to support the rise in tourism.
If Ras Al Khaimah becomes the main gaming hub, these surrounding resorts could attract guests looking for privacy and relaxation close to the main casino island.

What It Means for UAE Tourism

These projects aren’t just about gaming; they represent a wider move to boost tourism and create new entertainment options for both visitors and locals. The focus is on luxury, safety, and cultural respect.

Experts believe that a few carefully licensed casino resorts could add billions of dollars to the UAE’s economy, attract new tourists, and create thousands of jobs.

Final Thoughts

The UAE is taking a careful but confident step toward casino tourism. Ras Al Khaimah is already leading with Wynn, and Dubai may not be far behind.

If done right, these resorts will combine luxury, entertainment, and regulation in a way that fits perfectly with the UAE’s modern image.

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