When the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is mentioned, the first thing that comes to mind is how religious they appear. From their attire, to the lifestyle, every aspect has to be in compliance with Islam. If you’re not too familiar with the Islamic law, some of the things prohibited include premarital sex, alcohol drinking, and gambling.
Although gambling is illegal, it has been in the culture for centuries now. It’s even a multimillion dollar industry in the Middle East; both through the net and physical high-end casinos. Although there has yet to be a casino in UAE, it looks like they are taking it up a notch now after revising their law on alcohol drinking and premarital cohabitation a couple of years ago.
The religious country is seemingly becoming more lenient with their laws, as recently they have announced a revelation that has shocked the Muslim community all around the world. They have accepted a multibillion dollar deal with one of the biggest casino companies from the United States of America, Wynn Resorts, that is not only popular in Las Vegas but also Macau.
The Nevada-based casino company will be opening a luxurious resort that is expected to be done by 2026. It is set to house a thousand rooms and 10 restaurants along with a “gaming area”. The resort will comprise of almost everything you can think of – from spas to convenient marts and even a convention centre.
They have chosen to build the resort in Ras al-Khaimah, specifically on the man-made island of Al-Marjan. According to Craig Billings, the Chief Executive of Wynn Resorts, they see huge potential in Ras al-Khaimah making it big in the tourism industry; hence the chosen spot.
Alongside that, the UAE’s Tourism Development Authority has introduced a new division called the Department of Entertainment and Gaming Regulation, which has everyone questioning whether the entertainment regulations in the country will be loosened up. Having said that, Ras al-Khaimah’s government communications office has yet to announce the legality of gambling in the country.
Sealing the deal with Wynn Resorts with an alleged casino coming up in less than 5 years, UAE sure is making a huge step in liberalisation.
