Date Published: November 21, 2023, 03:00h.
Last Updated on: November 21, 2023, 01:16h.
Marriott International has revealed plans for the JW Marriott Al Marjan Island Resort and JW Marriott Residences Al Marjan Island near the soon-to-be-built Wynn Al Marjan Island in the UAE.
The Marriott development carries an estimated price tag of $1.3 billion and will feature 300 guest rooms and 524 residences. The Marriott property will be conveniently located near two international airports.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the new development in Al Marjan Island. It is truly a unique project that will provide an unparalleled experience for visitors and residents alike,” said Jaidev Menezes, regional vice president of mixed-use development in Europe, the Middle East and Africa for Marriott International, in a statement.
Wynn Resorts broke ground on its UAE project this year and is aiming for an early 2027 opening.
Marriott Project Could Push Wynn to Open Sooner
Marriott’s announcement led to speculation that Wynn could accelerate its UAE timeline because Marriott plans to open in late 2026.
Wynn Al Marjan Island, envisioned as one of the world’s largest gaming facilities, will feature a resort, a hotel with 500 rooms and suites, and 24 dining options, all with ocean views. The property will also have a 1,000-foot-tall tower and beachfront villas.
Wynn is partnering with a local hotel developer on the project, and it’s estimated the US company’s stake will be around a third. The project is estimated to cost close to $4 billion.
Marriott UAE Venture Could Bode Well for Wynn
Marriott and Wynn will compete to fill guest rooms, but the Marriott venue could benefit Wynn by sending guests to the integrated for gaming and entertainment.
A traditional US-based hotelier with the gravitas of Marriott entering Al Marjan Island signals that Wynn was indeed shrewd in picking that location — a point recently affirmed by Dubai indicating it will be some time before it considers casino gaming.
UAE may ultimately unveil a gaming framework before the end of this year, which could set the stage for approval of Wynn’s casino bid at some point in 2024.