In a groundbreaking move, Dubai is set to unveil a Vegas-style island, ‘The Island,’ off the coast of Jumeirah, featuring iconic Las Vegas hotels – MGM, Bellagio, and Aria. With a construction contract valued at USD 1.2 billion, this marks the largest awarded in Dubai since 2017, signaling a significant milestone for developer Wasl and the city’s hospitality landscape.
The Island’s Grand Vision:
Initially announced in 2017, ‘The Island’ is a 3.5 million square meter development set to become a hub of luxury with MGM-operated hotels and an entertainment district. The recent construction contract awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation reaffirms the commitment to this ambitious project, placing it back in the spotlight.MGM President and CEO, Bill Hornbuckle, confirmed the development’s progress in a recent earnings call, shedding light on the luxury offerings. The Island is poised to feature 1,400 hotel rooms from the renowned MGM Grand, Bellagio, and Aria brands, bringing a touch of Las Vegas glamour to Dubai’s shores.
Exploring the Icons:
The Mediterranean-inspired Bellagio, overlooking the iconic Las Vegas lake, promises a unique experience with a permanent Cirque du Soleil aqua show and a choreographed fountain spectacle. Aria, the more upscale sister brand, caters to food enthusiasts with its array of high-end restaurants, including Catch, Jean-Georges Steakhouse, and Carbone. The MGM Grand, synonymous with star-studded events and hedonistic pool parties, adds an extra layer of allure to ‘The Island.’
Gaming Speculations:
While the grandeur of MGM, Bellagio, and Aria is set to captivate visitors, the question of whether ‘The Island’ will feature licensed gaming remains unanswered. The UAE has recently announced plans to establish The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), hinting at a potential regulatory framework for national lottery and commercial gaming. Although the details are yet to be unveiled, MGM President Hornbuckle expressed optimism, citing a “significant opportunity” should gaming be legalized in the UAE, particularly in Dubai.
The Road Ahead:
Looking ahead, Dubai’s hospitality landscape is poised for a transformative experience with ‘The Island’ and its illustrious MGM, Bellagio, and Aria partnership. As the city anticipates potential developments in gaming regulations, the project’s success could set the stage for future licensed gaming entities in the UAE.
In summary, ‘The Island’ emerges as a beacon of luxury, with MGM, Bellagio, and Aria adding their illustrious names to Dubai’s skyline. The construction milestone and the potential inclusion of a world-class gaming component underscore the city’s commitment to creating unparalleled experiences for residents and visitors alike. As Dubai’s hospitality landscape continues to evolve, ‘The Island’ stands as a testament to the city’s ambition and its ability to attract global icons to its shores. Stay tuned for more updates on this extraordinary development shaping the future of Dubai’s entertainment and hospitality scene.
