DUBAI: Wynn Resorts, a prominent player in the global gaming and hospitality industry, has marked a significant milestone by securing the first commercial gaming operator’s license in the UAE.
The authorisation, granted by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, positions Wynn at the forefront of the UAE’s nascent gaming landscape.
The company is currently developing a luxury resort, Wynn Al Marjan Island, in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, through a collaborative venture with local entities, Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding.
The approval of Wynn Resorts comes during a transformative period for the UAE, which has recently established a federal regulatory body to oversee gambling activities.
The decision ends years of speculation regarding the legal status of gambling in a region known for its conservative societal norms.
Developing framework
The hiring of experienced professionals from the US gaming industry to lead this regulatory body further underscores the UAE’s commitment to developing a robust framework for commercial gaming.
The shift towards legalising gambling is set against the backdrop of increasing economic competition within the Gulf region, particularly in relation to Saudi Arabia.
In an effort to bolster its status as a premier destination for trade, tourism, and finance, the UAE has introduced a series of legal reforms aimed at attracting international investment. The integration of gambling into the country’s entertainment offerings signifies a strategic maneuver to enhance its appeal to tourists and bolster its economy.
