Wynn Resorts is considering delaying the opening of its $5.1 billion casino resort in the United Arab Emirates, initially planned for Spring 2027. Construction on the project, which briefly halted in March due to the Iran war, has resumed, though disruptions from drones and missiles, alongside a tourism slump in the region, are impacting progress. Despite these challenges, Wynn's CEO Craig Billings confirmed there would be a "modest delay" and that construction continues with over 22,000 workers on site, with the company exploring alternative shipping routes and material sourcing.
CBRE Equity Research analysts believe a mid-to-late 2027 opening for the Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort is still feasible. They highlight the ongoing volatility of the conflict with Iran as the primary reason for management's inability to provide a firm opening date. Despite the delays, CBRE remains bullish on the long-term opportunity for Wynn and Ras Al Khaimah, citing strong domestic demand indicated by record visitation to the emirate in the first half of 2026.
The resort, which acquired a gaming license in 2024, is poised to be the UAE's first gaming resort and is expected to significantly boost tourism and job creation in Ras Al Khaimah. While facing logistical and shipping hurdles due to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Wynn Resorts continues to adapt its supply chains. The resort is designed to be a 70-story building, standing 305 meters tall, making it one of the world's tallest hotels. Wynn contributed $100 million to the project in Q1 2026, bringing its total investment to over $1 billion.
