MGM Resorts Dubai Will Not Have A Casino Boss Says

MGM Resorts is set to create a one-of-a-kind mega-resort in Dubai known as “The Island.” This ambitious project aims to combine the best of three MGM properties – Aria, MGM, and Bellagio – into a 1,400-room resort that promises to redefine luxury hospitality in Dubai. The project has been in the works since 2017 when it was announced by the ruler of Dubai himself. However, progress has been slow, and an opening date for The Island is yet to be confirmed.

However MGM Resorts’ CEO and president, Bill Hornbuckle, has stated that The Island will not feature a casino. This decision may come as a surprise to many, considering the recent formation of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in the UAE, chaired by Jim Murren, the former chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts. Speculations about a potential casino at MGM’s Dubai project have been rife, fuelled by Hornbuckle’s previous comments about the possibility of gaming being legalized in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

Despite the absence of a casino, MGM Resorts remains committed to The Island project. During a conference call with investors, Hornbuckle revealed that the budget for The Island has surpassed $2.5 billion. The exact breakdown of this budget is not publicly available, but it is clear that MGM Resorts is sparing no expense to make this project a reality. In November 2023, a construction contract worth $1.2 billion was awarded to China State, signalling the seriousness of MGM Resorts’ commitment to The Island.

Dubai’s potential for a thriving gaming industry has been a topic of great interest and speculation. With the formation of the GCGRA, many expected the doors to open for casinos in the city. However, progress has been slow, and Dubai authorities seem to have put gaming plans on the backburner, according to a Bloomberg report from November 2023.

Hornbuckle has not given up hope entirely on the possibility of a casino in Dubai. During a conference call, he mentioned that gaming could be legalized in either Abu Dhabi or Dubai “any day.” He also revealed that The Island has 200,000 square feet of space earmarked for a lavish casino, should the regulatory environment change.

While Dubai’s gaming prospects remain uncertain, neighbouring Abu Dhabi has emerged as a potential contender for hosting a casino. Hornbuckle expressed optimism about the possibility of obtaining a casino license in Abu Dhabi, particularly on Yas Island, the city’s leisure hub. MGM Resorts has already explored opportunities in Abu Dhabi, spending time on the ground to understand the licensing process. The fact that the GCGRA is based out of Abu Dhabi further strengthens the case for the city as a potential casino destination.

Yas Island is no stranger to entertainment and leisure attractions. With existing landmarks such as the Ferrari theme park, Warner Bros theme park, and SeaWorld, the addition of a casino would further enhance the island’s appeal. MGM Resorts has had past experiences with Abu Dhabi, having previously announced the MGM Grand Abu Dhabi project in 2007. However, the project faced delays and was eventually put on hold by the local owners, Mubadala, with no construction progress made.

While MGM Resorts continues to navigate the uncertain gaming landscape of the UAE, Wynn Resorts is making strides with its own casino project. The $3.9 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island, located in Ras Al Khaimah, around an hour from Dubai, is set to open in 2027. Unlike MGM Resorts’ Dubai project, Wynn Al Marjan Island has received confirmation of a casino, adding to the allure of this upcoming development.

As the regulatory landscape in the UAE evolves, MGM Resorts is keeping a close eye on the prospects for gaming in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Hornbuckle remains hopeful that both cities will eventually embrace the idea of casinos, and MGM Resorts aims to be well-positioned to seize any opportunities that arise. Whether it’s in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, time will ultimately reveal the fate of MGM Resorts’ grand plans for The Island.