RAK Launches Billion-Dirham Highway to Connect Landmark Casino Resort with Dubai

Ras Al Khaimah has begun construction on Wynn Boulevard, a new road route that will connect the Wynn Al Marjan resort, slated for a March 2027 opening, with the UAE's highway grid. The announcement accompanied the debut of Marjan Beach, an adjacent 85 million sq ft residential complex, as part of a broader AED1 billion (US$272 million) infrastructure project.

"We have just signed contracts worth over AED1 billion, and that is happening now," stated Graham Hallett, Marjan's Chief Development Officer. He confirmed the roadway will thread through Marjan Beach to highways E311 and E611, linking the IR to Dubai and neighboring emirates.

Economic Impact

The newly announced Wynn Boulevard will establish critical transit systems with the E311 and E611, a region Wynn Resorts deems its "key source market". A Wynn Al Marjan spokesperson affirmed, "We are pleased with the progress of the new infrastructure projects, which will add another connection from Al Marjan Island to Dubai."

The road anchors the Marjan Beach waterfront development, which is slated to include tens of thousands of residences and hotel units. While full costs have not been revealed, Marjan CEO Abdulla Al Abdouli confirmed its rapid progress, noting that 61 of the resort's 70 floors are complete.

The US$5 billion complex will feature a casino, private marina, and over 1,500 rooms by its 2027 launch. Analysts forecast up to US$8.5 billion annually in GGR, highlighting the project's importance to the region's economic ambitions.

Wynn's Role

While Wynn Boulevard is a government-led initiative, Wynn Resorts plays a role in its execution. The Company's design team is behind at least one pedestrian bridge for the lowered roadway, as indicated in visuals shared by local media. Island 3 Infra Enterprises, jointly owned by Wynn, RAK, and Marjan, will oversee its construction.

The project follows Wynn's securing of a massive US$2.4 billion loan for the resort in February 2025, which was the largest hospitality financing deal in the UAE. Trademarks such as "Arabian Strip", "Marjan Strip", and "Encore Marjan Island", filed in 2022, demonstrate the operator's broad ambitions in the region, extending beyond the resort.

A Luxurious Stay

Wynn al Marjan Island has announced 22 dining venues, including a steakhouse by French culinary icon Alain Ducasse and a Vegas-inspired Delilah supper club. Indo-Persian, Italian, Lebanese, and Japanese eateries will also be available. The property's Enclave, featuring 297 ultra-luxury suites, will join 1,500 guest rooms with Gulf vistas and regional motifs that channel 18th-century opulence.