MGM Tower in Dubai to Open in 2027, Confirms CEO William Hornbuckle
The much-anticipated MGM Tower in Dubai is on track to open in the third quarter of 2027, according to William Hornbuckle, CEO and President of MGM Resorts International. Speaking during the company’s Q1 earnings call, Hornbuckle revealed that the tower has already reached its fifth floor in construction, calling the project a “truly exciting resort with all kinds of features.”
“Hopefully we'll get to add gaming,” Hornbuckle added, though the current agreement is non-gaming.
This major project stems from a 2017 agreement between Dubai’s Wasl Hospitality and Leisure and MGM Hospitality. Under this deal, MGM was tapped to advise on and operate a premium beachfront resort in Dubai, aiming to bring Las Vegas-style luxury to the region—minus the casinos for now.
A Landmark Development for the Region
Set on a 26-acre prime beachfront site, the project will include the MGM Hotel, MGM Residences, and the iconic Bellagio Hotel. This marks the debut of the MGM and Bellagio brands in the Middle East, and signals a major step forward in Dubai’s vision to further establish itself as a global tourism and hospitality hub.
In addition to the MGM Tower, the broader resort development is designed to be a premier destination for both residents and international visitors. The venture highlights Dubai’s continued strategy of partnering with leading international names to enhance its luxury hospitality landscape.
Exploring Gaming Opportunities in the UAE
While the current agreement is explicitly non-gaming, MGM executives continue to monitor the evolving gaming landscape in the UAE. Hornbuckle noted that the recent visit by MGM’s leadership team, including Chairman Paul Salem, was aimed at discussing broader opportunities with Dubai’s leadership, including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
“The key mission was to update the government about opportunities we could bring to Dubai and the UAE,” Hornbuckle said.
Gaming Sector Gains Momentum in the UAE
Although MGM’s Dubai project currently does not include gaming, the potential for future developments remains. The UAE’s gaming sector is expected to generate between $3 billion and $5 billion (Dh11 to Dh18.35 billion) in the coming years, spurred by the country’s progressive regulatory approach.
The Wynn Al Marjan resort in Ras Al Khaimah is paving the way for integrated gaming resorts in the region. It was the first to receive a licence from the newly established General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) and is expected to open in early 2027. Construction is progressing at a rapid pace—reportedly one floor per week.
As the landscape shifts, industry watchers are keeping a close eye on Dubai’s MGM project, which could play a critical role in shaping the future of luxury and leisure tourism in the UAE.
