JW Marriott, a luxury hospitality company, has announced its plans to open a property on Al Marjan island in the new upcoming integrated Wynn Resorts, another luxury hospitality and gaming operator.

The venue comprising 524 residences along with 300 guest rooms is expected to open and commence operations by 2026. It is estimating five million tourists annually.

“JW Marriott Al Marjan Island Resort & JW Marriott Residences Al Marjan Island, are a luxury offering that will boost investment opportunities for both homeowners and tourists keen on enjoying the perks of waterfront living in prime leisure hubs,” said Abdula Al Abdouli, CEO of Marjan Arch as quoted by Asia Gaming Brief.

However, the announcement by Marriott may suggest a speeding up of the timeline, even as the US-based operator works to obtain the first casino licence for the emirate. In case, Marriott does obtain one, there is no information on what form of rivalry or a partnership will be there.

The UAE, overall, seems to be moving forward to allow casinos in future. With its setting up of the framework to legalise gaming across the board recently, casino operators are hopeful to secure an operating licence very soon. However, there is still no clarity as to what forms of gambling will be permitted in the UAE.

While Dubai has been slowing down its foray into legalizing gambling, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah seem to be fully onboard, with Abu Dhabi already scouting potential casino locations while Ras Al Khaimah has partnered with Wynn Resorts to open an integrated resort.

Among the operators, a key one is Wynn Resorts, which is also aiming to secure a casino licence. The hospitality and gaming operator is expecting a casino licence soon and is also in line to become the first-ever operator to get a licence in the UAE.