The countdown to 2027 begins for Wynn Al Marjan’s arrival as the UAE’s first casino

Things are coming together at Wynn Al Marjan, the UAE’s first casino resort. The 70-storey tower, which is being built on a private island off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, has officially reached its 61st floor. And according to Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO of Marjan, the opening date of March 2027 is holding firm.

A first for the region

The project is a joint venture between Wynn Resorts, Marjan, and RAK Hospitality Holding. In 2024, Wynn was granted the UAE’s first commercial gaming licence, making this the first resort in the region to legally offer gaming.

Alongside the gaming floor, Wynn Al Marjan will include:

  • 1,542 rooms, suites, and villas
  • More than 22 dining and lounge concepts
  • Pools, entertainment spaces, and wellness facilities

Tourism & economic boost for RAK

The project is expected to significantly impact tourism in Ras Al Khaimah. It’s one of the largest hospitality builds in the country, and Abdouli expects it to draw major visitor numbers while boosting the local economy. “Supporting the resort requires residential units, apartments, and new businesses,” he said. “It will be an integral part of Ras Al Khaimah’s economy.”

Hiring has started

Wynn is already staffing up. As of mid-September, 78 roles were open, and the company plans to have around 300 employees in place by the end of 2025. Expect those numbers to climb sharply as the resort moves closer to launch.

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Wider growth in Ras Al Khaimah

Wynn Al Marjan isn’t the only thing in motion. The announcement comes just days after Marjan confirmed the completion of infrastructure works for RAK Central, the emirate’s new business district, also set to open in 2027.

Ras Al Khaimah has set a target to attract 3.5 million annual visitors by 2030, and this resort is one of the biggest pillars in that strategy.

The big picture

Wynn Al Marjan is no longer just a concept, it’s rising fast, with 61 floors already complete, a confirmed timeline, and a big role to play in the future of UAE tourism. The countdown to 2027 is well and truly on.

Image: Wynn Al Marjan website