Wynn Resorts Resumes Construction on UAE’s First Casino Resort

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE: Wynn Resorts has resumed construction on its flagship integrated resort development in the United Arab Emirates after a brief pause, as regional tensions linked to the ongoing US–Israeli crisis with Iran continue to impact certain business operations across the Middle East.

The Las Vegas-based hospitality and gaming operator confirmed on Wednesday that construction activity has restarted at the site of Wynn Al Marjan Island, its landmark luxury resort project currently under development in Ras Al Khaimah.

According to the company, the temporary pause was implemented as a precautionary measure while the situation in the region evolved. Wynn Resorts stated that steps have been taken to ensure the safety and security of employees working on the project.

“Wynn employees have been offered the opportunity to work from abroad if their home embassy recommends they do so,” the company said.

Strategic Development in the UAE’s Tourism Expansion

The Wynn Al Marjan Island project represents one of the most significant hospitality developments currently underway in the UAE, forming part of Ras Al Khaimah’s broader strategy to strengthen its position as a global tourism and entertainment destination.

Wynn Resorts secured the UAE’s first commercial gaming operator’s licence in 2024, allowing it to develop the country’s first integrated resort featuring regulated gaming facilities. The development is expected to introduce a new segment to the UAE’s hospitality and leisure market, positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a key destination for international visitors.

The project is being developed on Al Marjan Island, a man-made archipelago that has emerged as one of the emirate’s most prominent tourism and real estate destinations.

VIDEO: Wynn Al Marjan Island, UAE's First Casino Resort Progresses Rapidly

Regional Disruptions Affecting Transport and Logistics

The wider geopolitical situation in the region has had a ripple effect on several industries, particularly logistics and aviation. The crisis has disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy and trade corridors.

Air travel has also been affected, with flight operations experiencing disruptions at major regional hubs including Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, two of the busiest aviation gateways in the Middle East.

Despite these challenges, Wynn Resorts confirmed that construction progress is continuing as planned following the brief suspension.

Wynn Resorts previously announced that the integrated resort is expected to open in the first quarter of 2027, marking a significant milestone for the UAE’s hospitality sector.

Once completed, the development is expected to include luxury hotel accommodation, entertainment venues, retail offerings, fine dining concepts, and leisure facilities, in addition to the country’s first regulated gaming operations.

The project is widely viewed as a transformative development for Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism and real estate sectors, potentially attracting new international investment and strengthening the emirate’s position within the global hospitality market.