In a remarkable shift from its long-standing stance against casino gaming, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) appears poised for a gaming revolution. Renowned Bellagio operator, MGM Resorts International, under the leadership of CEO Bill Hornbuckle, is among the key players leading this anticipated transformation.
Earlier this week, Hornbuckle disclosed to attendees of the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas how MGM is laying the groundwork for a potential casino boom in the UAE. The company, in partnership with Wasl Asset Management Group, is developing a hotel in Dubai, which is being envisioned as a “podium and pedestal” capable of housing a casino.
Hornbuckle was indeed optimistic when he revealed that plans were already afoot, pointing out that MGM and its affiliates’ presence in the region was already well-established. He stated, “This island has an MGM, a Bellagio, and an Aria on it. We’re now building a podium and pedestal that could house a casino. We think there will be three or four [casinos] in the Emirates.”
In preparation for a favorable decision from the UAE leadership, MGM has held in reserve 150,000 square feet of space at the Dubai property for potential conversion into a casino.
The wheels of change started turning when, late last year, Wynn Resorts announced the commencement of construction for Wynn Al Marjan Island with a somewhat vague promise of potentially housing a casino. This heralded the possibility that the traditionally casino-averse UAE might be adopting a more accommodating stance towards casino gaming.
Renewed optimism surged among industry players with the establishment of the UAE’s first gaming regulatory authority, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), last month. No less than former MGM CEO Jim Murren chairs this organization. While it isn’t exactly clear whether these connections will give MGM an edge in the UAE, the company is primed to seize the opportunity if casino gaming gets a green light from authorities in the UAE.
Hornbuckle voiced this sentiment when he said, “I’d love to be in Dubai with an operating product with a casino in it, but one step and one day at a time. We’re very progressive and excited by what could happen there.”
In the face of the ever-evolving landscape of casino gaming globally, it shouldn’t be altogether surprising to discover that nations previously resistant to gaming enterprises are considering adaptations to accommodate this lucrative industry. The question remains whether the UAE will officially join the ranks of countries embracing casino gaming.
However, as the UAE considers launching land-based casino resorts, we at the West Island Blog understand that not everyone can travel to these glimmering facilities. So, why not bring the thrill and excitement of the casino games right to your home? And no, you won’t have to convert your living room into a mini Las Vegas strip. How? By visiting the virtual universe of online casinos.
Why not discover the ever-expanding world of online casinos, a booming industry with a constantly evolving roster of games that tickle your adrenaline and inflame your competitive spirit? With our comprehensive list of the top online casinos for this month, uncover the digital realm of slots, blackjack, roulette, and more. After all, our mission here at the West Island Blog is to turn every Canadian’s casino dream into a convenient and accessible reality.
