Casino giant MGM Resorts has thrown its hat into the ring for a gaming license in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While details remain scarce, CEO Bill Hornbuckle confirmed the application, stating, “We’ve applied and hopefully we’ll be successful.”
The UAE is taking a significant step towards regulated gambling with the launch of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) website. This official platform allows interested companies to research the licensing process and submit applications. According to the GCGRA, licenses are available for operation in all seven emirates.
Intriguingly, the first lottery license was recently issued to The Game LLC, a newly formed Abu Dhabi-based company with ties to prominent local businesses. Further details about the company are yet to be revealed.
Meanwhile, MGM Resorts isn’t waiting on the sidelines. Construction is already underway on their massive 1,500-room hotel complex with an integrated casino in Dubai. Additionally, Wynn Resorts is also making a major play, investing a staggering $4 billion in a sprawling entertainment complex on Al Marjan Island.
