MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle Eyes Global Expansion Beyond Las Vegas

In the world of gaming and hospitality, MGM Resorts is a household name, and its CEO, Bill Hornbuckle, has set his sights on global expansion beyond the glittering lights of Las Vegas. While Las Vegas has been the heart of MGM Resorts, Hornbuckle is keen on tapping into emerging markets and new avenues for growth.

One of the notable moves in MGM Resorts' global expansion strategy is its entry into Japan. In April, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism granted approval for a staggering $10 billion integrated resort in Osaka. With agreements finalized with Osaka Prefecture and City, construction is poised to commence on this ambitious project.

Closer to home, opportunities are emerging in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Following Wynn's agreement for a resort in Ras al-Khaimah, the General Commercial Gambling Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) paved the way for resorts in other Emirates. Dubai, in particular, has caught the attention of MGM Resorts. Hornbuckle emphasized their patience, noting the potential for three or four licenses in the Emirates.

Hornbuckle revealed that there is a non-gaming project in Dubai that already features the renowned Bellagio, MGM Grand, and ARIA brands. Situated at the picturesque Jumeirah Beach on Porto Island, this project promises to be a magnificent resort and a potential integrated resort in the future.

While MGM Resorts is enthusiastic about global expansion, Hornbuckle acknowledges that opportunities like Japan are rare and require significant time and effort to materialize. MGM Resorts specializes in large-scale integrated resorts, which often come with multi-billion-dollar price tags. However, the tax rates in their current jurisdictions vary, with Macau and Japan posing higher tax challenges.

MGM Resorts' CEO Bill Hornbuckle remains focused on bringing the brand's expertise and grandeur to new markets worldwide, ensuring that the allure of MGM's integrated resorts extends far beyond the iconic Las Vegas Strip.