UAE residents mixed on Wynn Resorts’ impact on Ras Al Khaimah, survey reveals

Jenny Ortiz July 5, 2024

SiGMA news

UAE residents mixed on Wynn Resorts’ impact on Ras Al Khaimah, survey reveals

As Wynn Resorts prepares to open the first-ever casino in the UAE, a survey conducted by Dubai Casinos reveals varied opinions on its potential impact on Ras Al Khaimah. This landmark development, set to launch in 2026 on Marjan Island, has sparked significant interest and debate among locals.

In January 2022, Wynn Resorts announced the groundbreaking project that aims to transform Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism and entertainment landscape. The resort will be situated on a man-made island extending 4.5 kilometres into the Arabian Gulf, marking a pivotal moment in the UAE’s tourism sector.

The survey was conducted over six months with 2,000 respondents. The goal was to gauge public sentiment on how the Wynn Project might reshape Ras Al Khaimah. According to Dubai Casino, the survey exclusively targeted UAE residents, with 81 percent of respondents hailing from Ras Al Khaimah and all participants aged 18 and above.

Awareness and economic impact expectations

9 out of 10 respondents are aware of the Wynn Resorts project, highlighting the high level of public interest. 56 percent of participants believe the project will significantly boost tourism revenue and create job opportunities, reflecting optimism about economic growth. However, 29 percent anticipate only moderate economic benefits, while 15 percent foresee little to no impact on the local economy.

Real estate market expectations

Many respondents, 60 percent, expect the project to increase property values in the surrounding areas. However, 22 percent are concerned about potential decreases in property prices, suggesting mixed expectations.

54 percent of the respondents believe the casino will draw new tourists interested in gaming, potentially boosting local tourism. About 34 percent of respondents expressed concerns about the social implications, such as gambling addiction, calling for careful regulation. Additionally, 28 percent emphasised the importance of preserving local cultural integrity through sustainable development.

Tourism future

A majority, 60.8 percent, believe Dubai will remain the UAE’s top tourist destination, despite the Wynn Resorts project. However, 32.4 percent see the potential for Ras Al Khaimah to emerge as a significant tourist hub, while a small segment, 6.8 percent, remains unsure about its future standing.

Key insights

The introduction of a casino in Ras Al Khaimah has sparked discussions about its impact on the UAE’s cultural scene. Balancing traditional values with economic growth through tourism requires careful community engagement.

The Wynn project promises to bolster Ras Al Khaimah’s economy by increasing tourism revenue and creating jobs. However, concerns about social repercussions, such as gambling addiction, necessitate proactive measures.

Implementing a casino in Ras Al Khaimah poses regulatory challenges in the UAE, known for its strict governance of social conduct. Adapting existing frameworks to ensure responsible gaming practices is essential.

As Ras Al Khaimah advances with ambitious growth initiatives, these survey insights provide valuable guidance for stakeholders aiming to leverage opportunities and address challenges in shaping the emirate’s tourism future.

Upcoming SiGMA event: Click here to find out all about SiGMA East Europe powered by Soft2Bet happening in Budapest, September 2024.