The UAE is on the verge of transforming its entertainment and tourism sectors as it accelerates the licensing of international gaming vendors, including the prominent Wynn Resorts. Industry experts suggest that the UAE could become a leading gaming destination, potentially rivaling Singapore and Macau within the next five years due to its strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

In a significant development, the UAE launched the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in 2023 to oversee the expanding gaming sector. The GCGRA has already licensed six major operators, including Wynn Resorts, Aristocrat, and Smartplay. As the GCGRA continues its licensing efforts, the UAE is expected to roll out new gaming products such as lotteries, prize draws, and integrated gaming systems for both online and land-based casinos. According to the latest UAE 2025 report from Dubai Casinos, while Internet and Sports Wagering licenses have yet to be approved, experts anticipate regulatory changes that could bring news about online gaming licenses in 2025.

Wynn Al Marjan is currently developing a $3.9 billion integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah, scheduled to open in 2027. This initiative illustrates the UAE’s commitment to establishing a structured, world-class gaming environment. According to CBRE Institutional Research, Wynn Resorts could generate gross gaming revenues of $1.38 billion annually, with net revenues estimated at $1.8 billion.

The first lottery license was awarded to The Game LLC in July 2024. Jim Murren, chairman of the GCGRA, highlighted the launch of the UAE Lottery as a critical event that signifies the establishment of a disciplined regulatory framework for lottery activities and expresses the UAE’s dedication to nurturing a secure commercial gaming environment.

The UAE’s regulatory approach emphasizes compliance with international standards while respecting local cultural values, as noted by John Connelly, a former gaming executive and advisor to GCC markets. He stated that partnering with established players like Wynn helps the country gain credibility and expertise to prevent mistakes seen in other regions.

Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings shared the industry’s optimism, stating that the Ras Al Khaimah project represents just the beginning of a broader vision. He believes that the UAE’s execution capabilities will establish a new benchmark for integrated resorts worldwide. A Dubai-based financial analyst at KPMG added that gaming is expected to stimulate job creation and benefit related sectors such as hospitality and retail.

Experts predict that integrated gaming systems will blend digital platforms with physical venues, enabling patrons to use mobile apps to book casino tables or join hybrid esports tournaments. Analysts forecast that the UAE’s gaming market could generate up to $6.6 billion annually by 2030, with casinos playing a major role in boosting tourism. The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort is projected to attract 5 million visitors each year.

CBRE Institutional Research estimates that the total addressable market for gross gaming revenue in the UAE stands at $8.5 billion. In a scenario where three integrated resorts are developed—one each in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah—the potential revenue could reach $6 billion annually.

According to Morgan Stanley, the UAE possesses a real potential to compete with or even surpass Singapore in the integrated resort market, particularly with significant projects like Wynn Resorts in Ras Al Khaimah. Analysts emphasize that while the UAE may have fewer millionaires compared to its competitors, the growth rate among ultra-high-net-worth individuals is outpacing that of Singapore, which is vital for the casino market that relies on high-spending customers.