Wynn Resorts: UAE ‘Most Exciting New Market’ for Gaming Resorts in Decades
US-based hospitality and gaming giant Wynn Resorts has reaffirmed its strong commitment to the UAE market, calling it "the most exciting new market for integrated gaming resort development in decades." The statement comes as the company continues to make steady progress on its ambitious Wynn Al Marjan Island project in Ras Al Khaimah, which is set to open in March 2027.
Wynn Resorts revealed plans to hire 280 new employees in 2025, adding to its current workforce of 49 professionals, many of whom hold senior management positions. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, 25 new team members joined the project. By the end of the year, the employee count is projected to reach 327.
According to Michael Weaver, Chief Communications Officer at Wynn Resorts, large-scale recruitment will begin around September 2026, approximately six months prior to the resort’s opening. "The bulk of hiring for roles such as room attendants, restaurant staff, and bartenders will begin then, with over 7,500 new jobs expected to be created once the resort is fully operational in 2027," he added.
Wynn Resorts stated that all key division heads, covering both gaming and non-gaming operations, are now in place for the Al Marjan project. The development is being seen as a landmark for the region’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.
In its Q1 2025 earnings report, Wynn Resorts disclosed an investment of $58.2 million into the Wynn Al Marjan project, with $51.2 million contributed in cash. The company is responsible for funding 40% of the design and development costs, in return for an equivalent equity share in Island 3, the entity overseeing the project.
Wynn’s remaining 40% equity commitment is estimated to range between $650 million and $725 million, which includes capitalized interest, fees, and infrastructure improvements.
In February 2025, Wynn Al Marjan Island secured a $2.4 billion delayed draw secured term loan facility to finance the development. The loan was arranged through a facility agreement entered into by Wynn Al Marjan Island, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Island 3.
Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, confirmed that construction progress remains on track, with the hotel tower structure already reaching the 47th floor.
Once complete, Wynn Al Marjan Island is expected to contribute substantial EBITDAR (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and rent) to Wynn Resorts’ global operations.
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