MGM Resorts International is exploring the possibility of expanding into Dubai’s gaming sector following regulatory developments in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In its latest annual report, the US-based hospitality and entertainment giant acknowledged the establishment of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which regulates commercial gaming in the country.
“In the UAE, we currently have a non-gaming management agreement with Wasl Hospitality to bring the Bellagio, Aria, and MGM Grand brands to Dubai,” the company stated. “With the UAE’s establishment of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, tasked with creating a regulatory framework for commercial gaming, we are encouraged by the potential opportunity for gaming expansion in Dubai.”
“We are continuously exploring new geographies for future development, including Thailand,” the company added.
Existing agreements and plans
MGM Resorts currently operates in Dubai under a non-gaming management contract, overseeing the development of three of its renowned brands. However, the company has expressed interest in broadening its regional footprint, particularly in light of evolving gaming regulations.
The firm also highlighted its interest in expansion beyond the UAE, stating, “We are continuously exploring new geographies for future development, including Thailand.”
MGM on gaming licence application
MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle confirmed last year that the company has applied for a gaming licence in the UAE. This statement underscores MGM’s intention to establish a presence in the Middle Eastern gaming market, following in the footsteps of its competitor Wynn Resorts.
Wynn Resorts’ lead in UAE gaming market
In October 2024, Wynn Resorts became the first company to receive a Commercial Gaming Facility Operator licence from the GCGRA. The company is developing the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort in Ras Al Khaimah, set to open in March 2027.
Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings recently addressed concerns regarding potential competition in the UAE market. Billings projected that the UAE gaming market could grow to $3-$5 billion over time.
Casino interest on the rise in UAE
In a recent Dubai Casinos report, it found that there is a 28 percent rise in casino-related searches in the UAE. The report added that analysts anticipate that 2025 will bring regulatory shifts that officially legitimise online gaming and sports betting. Analysts also predicted three key developments in the country this year: online gaming and sports betting regulation, expansion of physical and hybrid gaming venues, and growth of the gaming vendor ecosystem.
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