Marriott International Making Big Splash in UAE with New Resort and Residences
Marriott International has revealed plans for the JW Marriott Al Marjan Island Resort and JW Marriott Residences Al Marjan Island, both set to be located near the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The development is estimated to cost $1.3 billion and will include 300 guest rooms and 524 residences. The location of the Marriott and Wynn properties is particularly attractive, with the Marriott venue being just 30 minutes away from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and an hour’s drive from Dubai International Airport.
Jaidev Menezes, regional vice president of mixed-use development in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa for Marriott International, expressed excitement about the project, stating that Al Marjan Island is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.
Wynn Al Marjan Island, which broke ground earlier this year, is aiming for an early 2027 opening date and is vying to become the UAE’s first regulated casino hotel. Despite not being direct competitors, the Marriott announcement has raised speculation that Wynn might expedite its UAE timeline, as Marriott is looking to have its venue open by late 2026.
Wynn Al Marjan Island is projected to be one of the largest gaming facilities in the world, featuring a hotel with 500 rooms and suites, 24 dining options with ocean views, a 1,000-foot-tall tower, and beachfront villas. Wynn is collaborating with local hotel developer RAK Hospitality Holding LLC on the estimated $4 billion project.
The entry of Marriott into Al Marjan Island bodes well for Wynn, with the competition for guest rooms potentially driving guests to the integrated resort for gaming and entertainment. Additionally, the presence of a reputable US-based hotelier like Marriott signals the strategic foresight of Wynn in choosing the location.
The UAE is expected to unveil a gaming framework before the end of the year, paving the way for Wynn’s casino bid to be approved in 2024. The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the UAE’s first casino gaming regulator, was formed in September.
