Al Marjan Island becomes Wynn’s ‘first beachfront destination’

On Tuesday, Wynn Resorts revealed it was developing a 550-metre beachfront, complete with a sheltered lagoon and an offshore artificial reef, at its Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort (IR).

The milestone offers the first public glimpse of the resort’s planned shoreline amenities as construction progresses ahead of the scheduled 2027 opening.

The newly completed beachfront is arranged around a protected lagoon designed specifically for swimming and snorkelling activities. At either end of the shoreline are submerged rock formations enhancing the natural aesthetic and water conditions. 

Marine life and luxury

Offshore, a series of engineered reef structures have been installed with the goal of accelerating marine habitat formation.

According to Wynn Resorts, initial signs indicate that coral and marine life are already colonising these reef units. 

Additionally, osprey have been observed nesting in the vicinity, signalling positive ecological integration.

Max Tappeiner, president of Wynn Al Marjan Island, said: “The ambition was to create a shoreline where guests can escape, somewhere they can swim in calm, clear water and enjoy the beachfront in complete privacy.”

He described the development as “Wynn Resorts’ first beachfront destination”.

“Wynn Al Marjan Island gives us the opportunity to create something entirely new for our portfolio, where exceptional surroundings and intuitive service come together in a way only Wynn can deliver.” 

The resort will also feature a gallery of fine art, which will include paintings, 17th century tapestries, Victorian-era cut glass and an 18th-century Buccleuch vase.

Work continues

The Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort was first announced in 2022, with Wynn receiving its commercial gaming licence from the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority in October 2024.

The first operator granted a land-based licence to date, Wynn Resorts predicted an opening of March 2027.  

However, due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, work was suspended for some time in February, picking up again in March after “steps [had] been taken to ensure the safety and security of all employees”.

Wynn Resorts has since confirmed that the resort will open in September 2027, six months on from the original timeframe. 

In its Q2 release Wynn reported that it had contributed $48.1 million during the quarter to the development of the resort, where it holds a 40% stake. 

Kathryn Evans

Kathryn covers bitesize breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood came calling.