MGM Resorts International, a US-based hotel operator, has applied for a license to operate a gaming facility in the UAE. The CEO and president of MGM Resorts, Bill Hornbuckle, confirmed the application during the Skift Global Forum 2024. The application is currently pending approval with the federal government, with hopes of securing the license for the project. This potential gaming facility would be the second of its kind in the UAE, following Wynn Resorts’ integrated gaming resort development on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, scheduled to open in 2027.
In response to the growing interest in commercial gaming, the UAE established the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in September 2023. The goal of GCGRA is to introduce a world-leading regulatory framework for commercial gaming, ensuring a socially responsible and well-regulated gaming environment. The authority will enforce strict guidelines and ensure compliance with the highest standards to promote responsible gaming practices and unlock the economic potential of the industry in the country. The UAE Lottery was the first to be awarded a license to operate the country’s first authorized lottery operation.
The development of a gaming facility by MGM Resorts International in the UAE signifies a significant shift in the country’s approach to commercial gaming. With the establishment of the GCGRA and the issuance of the first license to the UAE Lottery, the gaming landscape in the UAE is evolving. The introduction of a well-regulated gaming environment aims to create a socially responsible industry that adheres to strict guidelines and promotes responsible gaming practices. This move positions the UAE as a potential hub for commercial gaming in the region, attracting international operators like MGM Resorts International to invest in the market.
The UAE’s decision to welcome commercial gaming operations reflects a strategic move towards diversifying its economy and attracting international investments. By establishing a regulatory framework through the GCGRA, the UAE aims to create a transparent and trustworthy gaming sector that adheres to the highest standards of integrity and responsibility. The issuance of licenses to operators like MGM Resorts International and Wynn Resorts signifies a shift towards embracing the opportunities presented by the gaming industry while ensuring adherence to strict regulations to prevent negative social and economic impacts.
The collaboration between international hotel operators like MGM Resorts International and local authorities in the UAE highlights the mutual interest in promoting responsible gaming practices and stimulating economic growth. The development of gaming facilities in the UAE by renowned operators demonstrates confidence in the country’s regulatory framework and potential for sustainable development in the gaming sector. The partnerships formed between international operators and local entities underscore a shared commitment to fostering a gaming environment that prioritizes social responsibility and economic prosperity in the UAE.
In conclusion, the application for a gaming license by MGM Resorts International in the UAE represents a significant step towards the development of a regulated commercial gaming industry in the country. With the establishment of the GCGRA and the issuance of the first license to the UAE Lottery, the UAE is poised to become a key player in the regional gaming landscape. By attracting international operators and promoting responsible gaming practices, the UAE is positioning itself as a hub for sustainable and socially responsible gaming activities. As the industry continues to evolve, collaborations between international operators and local authorities will play a crucial role in shaping the future of gaming in the UAE.
