As we all are aware the UAE’s religion forbids gambling. Hence there is no sight of a destination related to this activity in the entire region. But the Wynn Resort group might change the facade of UAE making it ‘Hit The Jackpot’. A new UAE market that has never before legalised gaming has captured the attention of an American casino developer. An official statement by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism made the news of the opening of the casino in UAE relevant.
UAE Soon To Be Home To A Casino Bigger Than Vegas
Sounds like gambling is finally (officially) coming to the UAE…
Las Vegas hotel operator Wynn announces 1,000-room hotel in Ras Al Khaimah with “world-class entertainment & gaming amenities”
RAKTDA announces “Entertainment & Gaming Regulation” division
Gambling is illegal atm
— Ashleigh Stewart (@Ash_Stewart_) January 25, 2022
The casino, which might open in 2026 on the abandoned Dream Island, will be about 18,500 square metres in size.
The multibillion-dollar agreement between the UAE emirate of Ras al-Khaimah and the Nevada-based casino behemoth would see the opening of a 1,000-room luxury hotel with 10 restaurants and lounges, a spa, a convention centre, shopping areas, and a gaming area.
The Ras al-Khaimah Tourism Development Authority established a brand-new department for this gambling scene to legally venture into UAE. The department is called the Department of Entertainment and Gaming Regulation. It will oversee “integrated resorts,” which include hotel operations, entertainment venues, dining establishments, spas, retail stores, convention centres, and “gaming.”
Also Read: Ras Al Khaimah Multi-Dollar Gaming Hotel And Mega Resort Will Create 4,000 Tourism Jobs
Middle East Becoming More Foreign Expat Friendly?
The UAE’s first casino will be bigger than Las Vegas and will be located in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
Regulations are being drafted at the moment.
Exciting times for the UAE.
— Irina ₿. Heaver (@IrinaHeaver) November 10, 2022
Even with the construction of the Caesars Palace in Dubai, gambling has not been legalised in most of the country. Drinking beer and wearing a bikini on the beach has long been permitted there. This sets it distinct from the majority of its Middle Eastern neighbours as an expat hotspot.
The fact that gambling is included in the government statement’s definition of gaming has major implications for the emirate and the entire nation.
Cover Image Courtesy: Press Release