MGM Resorts International has pushed back the opening of its Dubai property to the second half of 2028, a year later than previously expected. The update was confirmed by CEO and President William Hornbuckle during the company’s second-quarter earnings call on Thursday, where he also highlighted steady construction progress and continued interest in bringing gaming to the region.
Dubai project timeline revised
The Dubai development, set to feature the MGM Grand, Bellagio, and Aria brands, is being built under a non-gaming management agreement with Wasl Hospitality. MGM Resorts had earlier projected a 2027 opening for the mega-resort. However, in its latest earnings presentation, the company said the project is now on track for a second-half 2028 launch.
Hornbuckle provided more context during the earnings call, noting that progress on-site has picked up pace. “Progress in Dubai has also started to gather steam with an expected opening date of the second half of 2028,” he said.
Construction reaches fifth floor
In May this year, during MGM’s , Hornbuckle had said that construction on the MGM tower in Dubai was “in full swing” and targeted for completion in Q3 2027. He also confirmed that work had reached the fifth floor of the building. “It’s an exciting project, a truly interesting resort with all kinds of features. Hopefully, we’ll get to add gaming,” he said at the time.
While the core structure may still finish by 2027, the full operational launch is now scheduled for the following year.
Gaming prospects in UAE
MGM Resorts is among the growing list of international operators showing interest in gaming in the United Arab Emirates. Last year, Hornbuckle revealed during the Skift Global Forum 2024 that the company had applied for a licence to operate a gaming facility in the UAE.
MGM Resorts is the second major US operator to pursue gaming in the region. Wynn Resorts became the first to secure a licence, with its Wynn Al Marjan integrated resort currently under development in Ras Al Khaimah.
Q2 financial performance strong
MGM Resorts also reported its highest-ever consolidated net revenues during the second quarter of 2025. The company posted $4.4 billion in consolidated net revenue, marking a 2 percent increase year-on-year. The rise was attributed primarily to improved performance in MGM China and its regional operations across the United States.
The strong financials come amid a broader global expansion strategy, with major developments in Dubai and Japan forming key parts of MGM’s long-term growth plans.
Global brand expansion continues
The Dubai project reflects MGM’s continued strategy to expand its global footprint through high-end, non-gaming resorts. The upcoming property will bring the company’s iconic brands to one of the Middle East’s most prominent tourism and business hubs.
Despite current restrictions on gambling in Dubai, MGM remains hopeful of future regulatory changes. The company’s interest in securing a licence aligns with recent developments in the UAE, where federal authorities have taken initial steps toward regulating gaming.
For now, MGM’s Dubai resort will operate as a luxury hospitality and entertainment complex, with the potential for gaming subject to future approvals.
