Dubai’s skyline is gaining another landmark—the MGM Tower, a premier beachfront destination, is on track for a 2027 opening, as confirmed by MGM Resorts CEO William Hornbuckle.
The project, a collaboration between MGM Hospitality and Wasl Hospitality, promises luxury hotels, branded residences, and potential gaming facilities, marking MGM’s Middle East debut.
MGM Tower Dubai
Opening Date
- Q3 2027 (construction currently on the 5th floor).
Location:
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26-acre prime beachfront site.
Brands Featured:
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MGM Hotel, MGM Residences, and Bellagio Hotel (first in the region).
Developer
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Wasl Hospitality (Dubai) + MGM Resorts International (UAE advisory & operations).
CEO’s Vision: Gaming Potential & Unique Features
During MGM’s Q1 2025 earnings call, Hornbuckle revealed:
“It’s an exciting project with all kinds of features. Hopefully, we’ll get to add gaming.”
Though the current agreement is non-gaming, the UAE’s gaming market (projected at $3–5B annually) leaves room for future expansion.
Why This Project Matters
Brand Milestone
- First MGM and Bellagio properties in the Middle East.
Tourism Boost
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Complements Dubai’s 2030 urban masterplan, targeting 25M annual visitors.
Competition
- Rivals Wynn Al Marjan (RAK’s gaming resort opening in 2027).
Government Engagement & Strategic Goals
In April 2025, MGM’s leadership, including Chairman Paul Salem, met Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed to discuss
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Economic opportunities for Dubai.
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Aligning with the UAE’s diversification strategy.
UAE’s Gaming Landscape: What’s Next?
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Wynn Al Marjan: The UAE’s first licensed gaming resort (RAK, early 2027).
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Regulation: GCGRA (General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority) oversees licensing.
FAQs
Q: Will the MGM Tower Dubai include casinos?
A: Not initially—the agreement is non-gaming, but the CEO hinted at future possibilities.
Q: How does this compare to Wynn Al Marjan?
A: Wynn is focused on gaming; MGM emphasizes luxury hospitality (for now).
Q: Who owns the MGM Tower Dubai?
A: Wasl Hospitality (developer) + MGM (brand licensing & operations).
Wrapping Up
The MGM Tower Dubai represents more than just a new hotel—it’s a bold step in the city’s evolution as a world-class entertainment and tourism destination. With its 2027 opening, the resort will bring iconic brands like Bellagio and MGM Grand to the Middle East, blending luxury hospitality with potential future gaming offerings.
As Dubai continues to diversify its economy and attract high-profile investments, projects like this underscore its ambition to compete with global hotspots like Las Vegas and Macau. Whether you’re a luxury traveler, investor, or simply watching Dubai’s rapid growth, the MGM Tower is a development worth following.
Will this set a new standard for integrated resorts in the region? Only time will tell—but one thing is certain: Dubai’s skyline and tourism appeal are about to get even more dazzling.
