Gaming is gathering momentum in the Middle East. In addition to Wynn's RAK casino project, MGM Resorts has applying for a casino license in Abu Dhabi and is preparing to build a third casino resort in Dubai.\n\nMay 28, 2025 at 05:37 AM \n\n5 minute read \n\nEntertainment and Sports Law \n\nBy Peter Shaw-Smith Correspondent, Dubai \n\nClifford Chance and A&O Shearman are advising on key aspects of Wynn Resorts' $5.1 billion bet to develop the UAE’s first licensed casino at Ras Al Khaimah’s Marjan Island, set to open in 2027.\n\nWynn’s project represents a major cultural and economic milestone in a Muslim-majority country where gambling is traditionally banned. A successful investment by Dubai World in MGM Resorts in Las Vegas in 2007 emboldened the UAE to consider domestic gaming, but it has taken nearly 20 years to come to fruition.

Clifford Chance, A&O Shearman Advise on Wynn’s $5B Gamble to Build the UAE’s First Casino

Wynn Resorts is developing the UAE’s first licensed casino at Ras Al Khaimah’s Marjan Island with a $5.1 billion investment, advised by Clifford Chance and A&O Shearman. The project marks a cultural and economic milestone in a Muslim-majority country where gambling is traditionally banned. MGM Resorts is also pursuing casino licenses in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.