The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has spent the past few years rebranding itself as the epicentre for luxury hospitality, jaw-dropping infrastructure projects and tourism innovation. The Middle Eastern nation is working to bring casinos into the picture, opening a new chapter in entertainment and economic diversification that could change the landscape forever.
Land-based resorts are already in the works, while regulators have been issuing vendor licenses to reputable suppliers of online gaming products and services.
Land-Based Gaming: Wynn Leads, MGM Waits
The UAE is in the process of establishing its first casino, with Wynn Resorts currently building a multi-billion-dollar venue in Ras Al Khaimah.
Everything is on track for the resort to open its gates in early 2027. Intriguingly, Wynn are already planning to build another casino in the same Emirate.
They have reserved land for the project, lending credence to the notion that the UAE has big plans to tap into the lucrative global gaming market.
MGM Resorts is also trying to muscle its way in. They are currently building a stunning luxury edifice with a 250,000-square-foot podium, specifically designed to house a casino.
Chief executive officer Bill Hornbuckle previously confirmed that they applied for the license in September 2024. MGM remain in discussions with the federal General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) and leaders of Dubai.
Industry experts have predicted that the UAE could generate over $7 billion annually in casino revenue, rivalling established gaming markets elsewhere.
Online Sector: Vendor Licences Point to Future iGaming Market
Developments around the physical casinos have dominated conversations, but the online side of the industry is also taking shape in the background.
The GCGRA has already approved more than a dozen licenses for associated companies. The government is hoping to redirect its citizens who are already gaming online to locally regulated platforms.
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Gaming technology provider Light & Wonder became the latest company to receive supplier approval in July 2025, joining notable companies such as Aristocrat, IGT, Novomatic and Scientific Games.
CEO of Light & Wonder, Matt Wilson, said, “We’re honoured to be among the first approved suppliers and are committed to bringing our trusted, responsible and player-first approach to the UAE.”
These licenses permit suppliers to offer their online gaming tech, including electronic gaming machines, table utilities and iGaming content, to licensed operators in the UAE.
However, it is worth noting that the UAE has not announced an official timeline for the launch of regulated iGaming. The foundations are just being laid for a sustainable online market.
Regulators are introducing regulated gaming products in phases. First came the UAE’s national lottery, which was licensed to The Game LLC in June 2024.
The lottery launched ticket sales in November with the first draw held in December. This phased approach is likely to be applied to other gaming products as the UAE continues to expand its offerings.
The UAE’s Global Gaming Ambitions
All signs indicate that the UAE is striving to position itself as a powerhouse in the online gaming industry. The Gulf nation has been trying to diversify its economy, and gaming is central to its plans.
With Wynn rapidly expanding, MGM aggressively pursuing its Dubai project and renowned suppliers flocking to the UAE, the country is poised to attract massive gaming investment.
The integrated resorts will attract international visitors eager to enjoy this exciting new blend of hospitality, dining, entertainment and gaming.
The ambitious developments will bolster the tourism sector, tying into the UAE’s plans to diversify the economy away from its reliance on crude oil.
Interestingly, former MGM CEO Jim Murren is chair of the GCGRA, signalling that the UAE is serious about this sector and growing it into something grand yet sustainable.
The UAE has appointed several experienced international executives as it bids to adopt world-class practices while ensuring they stay in line with the country’s cultural and economic objectives.
Analysts predict that the UAE could stand shoulder to shoulder with recognised gaming hubs such as Macau and Singapore thanks to its location, infrastructure and ability to attract tourists.
As the GCGRA continues to develop a regulatory framework and foster competition, the UAE is preparing to become a leading centre for the global gaming industry.
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