MGM Resorts to Build Micro Sphere in Dubai |

Published on: September 19, 2024, 07:49h.

Last updated on: September 19, 2024, 07:53h.

MGM Resorts recently provided updates on The Island, a resort being constructed in Dubai. Set on the 26-acre Bluewaters Island, this 1,500-room resort will include distinct MGM, Bellagio, and Aria hotel towers, along with a central spherical events venue.

MGM’s “sphere” is that tiny silver thing in the center of this latest rendering of The Island, which it is currently constructing in Dubai. (Image: skift.com)

Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and president of MGM Resorts, mentioned at the Skift Global Forum that the Dubai sphere would be smaller than the Las Vegas Sphere but equally captivating.

Size Matters

Hornbuckle explained, “It has 300 seats with a mini showroom and the visual things you’d obviously do inside a sphere.”

While smaller than the Las Vegas Sphere, there are no plans for amusement-park thrill rides with Dubai’s sphere.

Instead, the Dubai sphere will offer an immersive experience showcasing the history of Dubai, highlighting its transformation from desert in 1985 to a bustling metropolis with 2 million residents within 35 years.

Regarding possible partnerships for the project, Hornbuckle mentioned being open to collaborations in the future. Meanwhile, MGM is working with Wasl Hospitality and Leisure, a Dubai-based developer.

Still No Gaming

An aerial rendering of MGM’s The Island resort. (Image: MGM Resorts)

Despite earlier plans, there are currently no intentions to include a casino in the Dubai resort. However, Hornbuckle remains hopeful for gaming’s future acceptance in the region.

The Middle East, traditionally opposed to gambling under Islamic law, has shown signs of softening attitudes towards it, with the UAE establishing regulatory bodies for potential casino frameworks.

Dubai-Off

A rendering of Wynn’s Al Marjan Island resort in Dubai, which has also broken ground. (Image: Wynn Resorts)

Competing with MGM, Wynn Resorts is developing a $4 billion resort on Al Marjan Island, positioned for potential gaming activities.

Although Caesars Entertainment initially ventured into Dubai with non-gaming properties, it later pulled out, leaving room for new players to explore opportunities in the evolving Middle Eastern market.

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