Wynn Al Marjan: The Future of Gulf Tourism

Wynn Al Marjan: A Future Island in Ras Al Khaimah

The United Arab Emirates is opening a new chapter in the history of tourism and hospitality with the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan integrated resort. The $3.9 billion investment, being built on an artificial island off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, is considered a milestone in the region—not only for its size and luxury services but also because it will be the first resort in the entire Middle East and North Africa to include commercial gaming activities.

A Unique Destination Embodying Luxury

The Wynn Al Marjan is being constructed on its own 60-plus hectare island that extends deep into the Arabian Gulf. The project received the UAE's first official commercial gaming license in 2024, opening up new opportunities for Ras Al Khaimah in the premium entertainment industry.

The resort has already achieved impressive architectural milestones: by August 2025, its 70-story tower had reached the 61st floor, indicating that the schedule is on track. The official opening is expected in March 2027.

What Does Wynn Al Marjan Offer?

The resort will offer 1,542 luxury hotel rooms and suites, as well as more than 22 restaurants, bars, and unique culinary experiences. The resort is not just about gaming—it also offers numerous non-gaming attractions: spa services, a convention center, a water adventure park, premium shops, and exclusive beach clubs await visitors.

The aim is to provide an experience that rivals any luxury resort around the world while harmonizing with local cultural values. The project's uniqueness also lies in its role as an economic driver beyond tourism.

Jobs and Economic Uplift

The resort will create thousands of jobs directly and indirectly. Recruitment began in 2024, with 78 open positions by September, aiming to hire 300 people by year's end. Some of the 80 employees hired earlier have already participated in initial training to be prepared to welcome the first guests in 2027.

The economic impacts extend beyond the resort: new residential parks, apartment buildings, and commercial units are being built in the area. For local businesses, the increased number of visitors represents a huge opportunity, as demand grows for restaurants, shops, services, and entertainment venues.

Ras Al Khaimah’s New Center: RAK Central

The Wynn project is not unique among developments in the area. Marjan company recently announced the completion of infrastructure work for a new community called RAK Central, which will be the largest business district in the Northern Emirates and is expected to start welcoming businesses in 2027. These will be followed by hospitality and residential projects.

The emirate takes its growth seriously: the Ras Al Khaimah Tourist Development Authority aims to attract more than 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030, requiring further accommodations and active investor presence in the commercial and residential property markets.

Conscious Development, Sustainable Growth

The planning of new master plans and residential zones is not random. Marjan's leader emphasized that every development is backed by research and science-based analysis. A balanced supply-demand ratio is a top priority, as is ensuring a minimum 30% return rate for developers on each new project.

This strategic thinking helps ensure that Ras Al Khaimah remains an attractive destination for both tourists and investors. The region increasingly offers an alternative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, especially for those seeking new opportunities in the business and hospitality sectors.

Gaming and Tourism - The Beginning of a New Era

The Wynn Al Marjan integrated resort will not merely be a new luxury hotel in the region. It symbolizes the United Arab Emirates' effort to diversify its economy, attract new tourism segments, and ensure long-term sustainable development for the emirates.

While gaming activities remain heavily regulated, the Wynn project indicates that Ras Al Khaimah is ready to become the region's newest tourism and economic hub. The multi-billion-dollar investment, the artificial island extending into the sea, and the anticipated millions of visitors all signal that something truly significant is in the making.

Summary

With its opening planned for 2027, Wynn Al Marjan will not only be the first integrated gaming resort in the MENA region but also the cornerstone of a new economic, tourism, and real estate ecosystem in Ras Al Khaimah. The project is already impacting the real estate market, labor market, and investor sentiment—and this is just the beginning.

Anyone observing the development trajectory of the United Arab Emirates will understand that Ras Al Khaimah is soon climbing to heights where only Dubai and Abu Dhabi have ventured. Wynn Al Marjan plays a crucial role in this.

(Source of the article: Wynn Al Marjan press release.)