No gambling ahead in Dubai

Dubai’s tourism office denied having any plans to authorise gambling despite the recent deals between local hotels and Las Vegas casino operators.

UAE.- Recent deals between Las Vegas casino operators and Dubai hotels generated rumours that indicated a possible upcoming gambling authorisation in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, Dubai’s tourism office struck down any apex of expectations and denied any plans to approve gambling activities.

The gambling industry had become excited over an MGM Hospitality project in Dubai, which was announced in March 2017. Furthermore, a deal between local developer Meraas (with heavy links with the government) and Caesars Entertainment Corporation to open two US$2.1 billion hotels increased expectations until the recent statement by local officials.

“We need to bear in mind that there are cultural things that are a priority to us,” Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing chief executive Issam Kazim said as he denied the rumours. He explained that deals with US-based companies were related to the creation of a themed “destination and experience rather than about casinos.”

Still, as the UAE seems to be a little more liberal than other Islamic states as it allows drinking alcohol, gambling could be eventually authorised, especially in order to help the country’s desire to boost Dubai’s tourism industry. However, it won’t be in the near future.