The casino developer Wynn Resorts has announced that it will build its first complex in the United Arab Emirates which is due to open in 2027.
Wynn Al Marjan Island will be “inspired by the tranquil seascape of Al Marjan Island, a group of four islands.”
The resort is being developed with local partners Marjan LLC, and RAK Hospitality Holding LLC.
“Set in a pristine setting overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, Wynn Al Marjan Island rises more than 1,000 feet (305 meters) above the sea, welcoming visitors to a premium luxury experience, including exceptional entertainment and gaming amenities,” the company said on its website.
With an estimated project cost of approximately USD 3.9 billion, Wynn Al Marjan Island aims to transform and accelerate the emirate’s rise as a major global tourist destination, while also creating substantial value to its economy through tourism and job creation.
The project will pave the way for the accelerated growth of allied business sectors, Wynn Resorts said.
“We have spent the past year meticulously programming and concepting Wynn Al Marjan Island, carefully considering its unique location,” said Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, “I am incredibly proud of our design and development team’s ability to impart our legacy of rich, thoughtful design into a sun-soaked beachside resort that will delight customers, new and old. We look forward to opening Wynn Al Marjan Island in early 2027.”
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest news and updates from around the Muslim world!
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and, like the rest of the country, gambling has been traditionally prohibited under Islamic law so a change in the law may be necessary to accommodate the new casino.
Currently the UAE’s federal law prohibits all forms of gambling, including online gambling, and imposes severe penalties on individuals caught gambling.
Previously, violations of the country’s gambling laws could lead to severe punishment, including imprisonment and deportation.
In addition to federal laws, Ras Al Khaimah has its own laws and regulations related to gambling. Before now, the emirate has not issued licenses for any form of gambling, and any person found participating in gambling activities in Ras Al Khaimah has faced legal consequences.
In Islam, gambling is haram and the Quran states that it is an act of Satan’s handiwork and that it creates enmity and hatred among people. Therefore, Muslims are not allowed to participate in any form of gambling or games of chance.
The prohibition on gambling is based on the principle of preventing harm to oneself and others. Gambling often leads to addiction, financial problems, and can cause family and social problems. It is also seen as a form of exploitation, where those who are addicted to gambling can become vulnerable to those who profit from it.
Islam encourages Muslims to earn their livelihood through lawful means, such as honest work, trade, or investment. Muslims are also encouraged to give to charity and help those in need, instead of wasting their wealth on gambling.
It is important to note that the prohibition applies not only to traditional forms of gambling but also to online gambling and any other forms of games of chance.
