Beijing-based China State Construction Engineering Corporation has been awarded the contract by local developer Wasl to build a US$1.2 billion development in Dubai slated to host MGM Resorts-owned hotel brands MGM, Bellagio and Aria.
According to a report by local business intelligence outlet MEED, The Island project – located off the coast of Umm Suqeim – represents the largest construction deal signed in the emirate since 2017.
Covering the full breadth of the 10.5-hectare island, it will incorporate the three MGM-linked hotel brands with a combined 1,400 rooms, plus various retail, food and entertainment options.
While a casino is not currently part of the development’s plans, MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle said during an investor presentation in September the company was preparing a 150,000 square foot space that could be converted into a casino should rumored casino legislation pass in the near future.
“The UAE is a fascinating opportunity,” Hornbuckle said at the time. “The long-term potential on [gaming in the UAE] we think is pretty compelling.”
Wynn Resorts has also stated it expects to incorporate casino gaming into the integrated resort development currently being built in Ras Al Khaimah, while there are reports that each of the UAE’s seven emirates will be offered the opportunity to issue one casino license to a chosen operator.
“Reportedly, there’s a gaming decree that has been signed but not released,” Hornbuckle added. “What has to happen here is each ruler will rule whether they want gaming or not.
“We will wait for Dubai to hopefully have this become a reality.”
