Wynn Resorts will launch its first casino resort in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2027 and there’s already plenty of anticipation around the project as it promises to redefine luxury.
The landmark will be Wynn’s first venture into the Middle East. The UAE initially raised several eyebrows when it sanctioned the project, but the region is warming up to the prospect of a regulated casino.
The Middle East has traditionally been opposed to gambling, but the resort underscores the UAE’s ambition to fully explore the industry’s potential.
Wynn has already received a casino licence, so it is only a matter of time before the country ventures into the digital market, with online casinos in UAE waiting in the wings.
They are already operational but are regulated by foreign operators. The resort will cement the UAE’s position as a luxury destination once it opens its doors.
The UAE has so much to offer aside from the casino resort, and our travel guide will come in handy if you are looking to maximise your experience in the region.
Where to Stay: Options for Every Budget
The UAE is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, but there are also several wallet-friendly options for those who cannot afford a five-star space.
Luxury Hotels
If you are heading to Ras Al Khaimah with deep pockets, the resort offers an unmatched experience.
Wynn has revealed that the resort will house over 1,000 luxurious rooms and suites, along with several private terraces where guests can enjoy the view of the Arabian Gulf.
As a first-of-its-kind resort in not just the UAE but the entire Middle East, guests can also expect world-renowned dining options curated by some of the best chefs in the world.
There is also an expansive spa with rejuvenating treatments, exclusive poolside cabanas and private access to the beach, where guests can enjoy an array of entertainment options, including the casino.
Mid-Range Options
If you are not looking to splurge on accommodation, you can explore a number of mid-range properties around Al Marjan Island.
Visitors can check out options such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa and Hampton by Hilton. They offer all-inclusive packages, excellent services and mouth-watering beachfront locations.
These properties also have family-friendly amenities, including water parks and babysitting, making them ideal for group vacations or family trips.
Budget-Friendly Options
Visitors planning to save their cash for the casino and other explorations should consider getting a spot at Jannah Hotel Apartments and Villas or the Citymax Hotel.
They are only a short drive away from the resort and offer clean, comfortable accommodation at a fraction of the cost.
You can also get complimentary breakfast and access to nearby public beaches to enjoy the UAE without overspending.
Best Transport Tips for Getting Around the City
Ras Al Khaimah’s modern infrastructure makes it easy to navigate. If you want to explore beyond the resort and Al Marjan Island, renting a car is your best bet.
The city’s excellent transport network makes it easy to connect nearby cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Signs are written in English and Arabic to make driving around straightforward, especially for first-time visitors. Parking is also widely available, and many resorts and hotels offer complimentary valet services.
You can save cash by using buses or shared taxis. From Ras Al Khaimah, you can catch buses to Dubai or Abu Dhabi for a fraction of the cost of private transport. However, public transport may require a bit more time and planning.
Ridesharing apps such as Uber are also widely available in the city for those who prefer the convenience of private transfers.
Must-Visit Attractions
Wynn Resort offers you everything you need for a luxurious experience, but stepping outside reveals a treasure trove of attractions across Ras Al Khaimah and beyond.
For instance, you can explore the city’s Jebel Jais mountain range. Aside from a stunning view, you can also try the world’s longest zipline.
History buffs will enjoy exploring the Dhayah Fort, a 16th-century hilltop fortress that provides insight into the heritage of the Middle East.
If you want to move a bit further away from the city, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is only two hours away from the resort.
You can also stroll through the Dubai Marina or take a boat ride along the Dubai Creek for a glimpse of the city’s behind-the-scenes beauty.
Abu Dhabi also has a couple of cultural gems if you move a little further afield.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an architectural masterpiece waiting to be explored, or you can enjoy world-class art in a soothing waterfront setting at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
