Global Airlines Rush to Secure UAE Routes Ahead of Wynn's $5bn Casino Debut
Wynn Resorts casino and entertainment complex opens in spring 2027
According to Travel and Tour World sources, Air France, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Air India, and Emirates all submitted formal applications to either secure new UAE routes or build upon existing ones. These airlines are anticipating an "unprecedented spike" in demand once the Wynn Resorts casino and entertainment complex opens in spring 2027.
The resort will be in Ras Al Khaimah, which is up to 90 minutes by car from Dubai and 30 minutes by plane. Emirates is reportedly looking to double its daily shuttle flights between the two cities. The European airlines are seeking certifications that would allow them to fly from London to Dubai and on to Ras Al Khaimah so that tourists wouldn't need to look for alternative ground travel options to visit the new casino.
Wynn Resorts is hoping to attract high-spending tourists from across the world to its $5bn integrated resort. No other casinos have been granted a license to open in the UAE, so it has a first-mover advantage over competitors. Other companies such as MGM have expressed interest in pursuing a project in Abu Dhabi.
