UAE inaugurates first casino in the Gulf

ABU DHABI, Nov. 25 (YPA) – The UAE has announced the opening of the first casino in the Gulf, within a new luxury complex in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, a move considered unprecedented in a region where Islamic law prohibits gambling.

 

The project is part of the Wynn Resorts complex, located on an artificial island and featuring 1,542 rooms, directly overlooking the sea. It boasts integrated leisure facilities including luxury shopping, fine dining, and entertainment.

 

The $5.1 billion resort represents the largest single foreign investment in the UAE’s hospitality sector and is scheduled to officially open in 2027.

 

Although several emirates allow the regulated sale of pork and alcohol, gambling was a sensitive issue until the establishment of a dedicated gaming regulatory body in 2023, which has so far granted licenses to only two casinos.