Max Tappeiner Named President of Wynn Al Marjan

In his new role, Max Tappeiner will replace Thomas Shawn, who was named president of Wynn Al Marjan in 2023. While Wynn Resorts has not specified Shawn’s future, it is unknown whether he will be leaving the company or moving on to another role.

Tappeiner is a longtime employee of Wynn Resorts, where he has held a variety of key positions. Prior to his latest appointment, he served as Senior Vice President and Executive Vice President of Operations at Wynn Las Vegas, beginning in 2022.

A seasoned gaming professional, Tappeiner has also held senior management positions at major companies such as Resorts World, Venetian and Palazzo. His extensive experience in luxury brand management will be the foundation for creating an attractive casino resort in the UAE.

In his official statement on LinkedIn, Max Tappeiner expressed his gratitude to Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings for the opportunity to lead the project. He emphasized that it is a great honor and responsibility for him to join the Wynn Al Marjan Island team as the new president.

“I am looking forward to this exciting journey as we explore a new market and become the first casino operator in the UAE,” said Tappeiner.

Wynn Al Marjan Island, located in Ras Al Khaimah, is scheduled to open in 2027. The resort will be the UAE’s first integrated entertainment destination, offering approximately 1,500 hotel rooms, suites and villas, as well as a range of entertainment activities. A key element will be the gaming zone, which Wynn is pinning its hopes on in light of the UAE’s softening stance on gaming.

With minimal competition at this stage, Wynn Al Marjan Island is expected to generate up to US$1.4 billion in annual gaming revenue.

Following its recent Q2 report, which saw record financial results, Wynn Resorts remains confident in its opportunities in emerging markets and aims to strengthen its position as a global leader in casinos and hospitality.