MGM Resorts International has officially submitted a casino license application in Abu Dhabi as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) prepares for the arrival of casinos. CEO Bill Hornbuckle announced the submission during the 2024 Skift Global Forum, indicating that the company is eager to enter this new market. The application was made to the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) after the window for license bids opened in July.
The process for obtaining a casino license in the UAE involves several steps, including a preliminary screening and a more thorough vetting process. MGM Resorts International is no stranger to venturing into new markets, as it is currently the only casino company developing an integrated resort in Japan. Additionally, the company has a former CEO, Jim Murren, leading the regulatory efforts in the UAE, although he will not be part of the selection committee.
One of the key challenges facing MGM Resorts International in Abu Dhabi is the cultural barrier that must be overcome before progress can be made. Each emirate in the UAE will ultimately decide for itself whether or not to allow the establishment of a casino within its borders.
In addition to MGM Resorts International, Wynn Resorts is another major casino company looking to enter the UAE market. Wynn Resorts is currently in the process of developing a $3.9 billion resort in Ras Al Khaimah. Initially planned as a non-gaming property, the resort will have the necessary infrastructure to accommodate a gaming floor if it receives a casino license.
Overall, the prospect of casinos coming to the UAE has attracted significant interest from companies in the industry, with both MGM Resorts International and Wynn Resorts positioning themselves to take advantage of this new market opportunity. The future of casino gaming in the UAE remains uncertain, with each emirate having the final say on whether or not to allow casinos within its jurisdiction. As the regulatory process unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the landscape of the UAE’s gaming industry evolves in the coming years.