MGM Planning a UAE Resort in Dubai? Latest Updates on Expansion Talks

MGM Resorts International appears to be changing course, potentially steering its UAE gaming ambitions toward Dubai. Known for operating some of the top casinos in the United States, MGM is now exploring new ground abroad. In a recent high-profile meeting, MGM Chairman Paul Salem and CEO Bill Hornbuckle sat down with Dubai’s deputy ruler, Maktoum Bin Mohammed. While MGM had previously focused on Abu Dhabi, this sit-down suggests that Dubai, already home to one of MGM’s resort projects, could become the new target for a casino development.

The UAE’s gaming market is projected to generate between $3–5 billion annually, and MGM is clearly positioning itself to be a major player. With the country slowly balancing cultural considerations and economic opportunity, MGM’s latest moves look like a calculated bet on a region poised for growth.

MGM’s Bold Bet on Dubai

MGM once seemed all-in on Abu Dhabi, having pitched a casino proposal there just last year. But during the Q1 2025 earnings call, Hornbuckle hinted that Dubai might offer a better opportunity, especially since MGM is already building a $2.5 billion non-gaming resort on Jumeirah Beach. That resort, developed with Wasl Hospitality, has over 1,400 rooms and was reportedly designed with a gaming conversion in mind, just in case regulations shift.

During the Dubai meeting, attended by investor Barry Diller of IAC and senior UAE leadership, the discussion reportedly centered around how an integrated resort could support Dubai’s booming tourism sector. With over 17 million visitors in 2024, the city offers unmatched exposure. That potential makes Dubai a more attractive option than the more conservative Abu Dhabi.

Why Dubai Over Abu Dhabi?

While MGM hasn’t closed the door on Abu Dhabi, Dubai’s infrastructure and tourism profile seem more aligned with the brand’s vision. The city’s openness to luxury entertainment, retail, and international investment makes it a better candidate for a Vegas-style resort. Meanwhile, after securing the first UAE gaming license, Wynn Resorts is already ahead in Ras Al Khaimah, having broken ground on its Wynn Al Marjan Island project.

To stay competitive, MGM needs a green light soon, especially before the market space tightens. Timing matters, and Dubai seems to be edging closer to embracing regulated gaming. It’s no surprise that MGM is now focusing its efforts there.

Final Thoughts

MGM’s shift to Dubai is a strategic move that blends timing, tourism, and location. With a major resort already in place and growing political engagement, the company is well-positioned to act if Dubai gives gaming the go-ahead. But success isn’t guaranteed; MGM still needs to navigate cultural sensitivities and regulatory approvals and beat Wynn to the punch. It’s a bold play, but one that might just pay off if all the pieces fall into place.