MGM files for Abu Dhabi casino license

The renowned international gaming and hospitality company, MGM Resorts, recently confirmed that it has applied for a casino license in Abu Dhabi. The announcement was made at the Skift 2024 Global Forum, where MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle emphasized the importance of this move for the company.

The application became possible after the UAE Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) began accepting applications for casino licenses in July 2024. The licensing process includes several stages, starting with a preliminary selection of candidates and ending with a more detailed analysis of applications. Only those companies that successfully pass all stages of the selection will be allowed to open casinos in the UAE. MGM is one of two companies that have already applied for a license.

Hornbuckle confirmed: “Yes, we have applied. We have applied in Abu Dhabi.” He also explained how the licensing system works in the UAE, where each emir has the right to decide whether to allow casinos in their territory. MGM hopes to receive a positive decision soon.

According to Hornbuckle: “The federal government in Abu Dhabi has to approve it, and we hope to win the license. Each emir can decide for themselves whether to allow casinos in their city.”

Back in 2017, MGM partnered with Hospitality and Leisure to build a luxury resort in Dubai. The project was designed to replicate the success of MGM in Las Vegas and bring well-known brands like MGM, Aria, and Bellagio to the UAE market.

At the moment, the resort does not include gaming areas, however, as Hornbuckle noted, the complex has several premises that could be used for a casino if permission is received from the Dubai authorities.

Experts positively assess the financial stability and resources of MGM, noting that the company is ready to implement large-scale projects. CBRE analysts highly appreciated the company's flexibility, drawing attention to its capabilities for implementing ambitious projects not only in the UAE, but also in New York and Japan.