Hard Rock International is planning to enter the emerging gaming market of the UAE, focusing exclusively on the hospitality and residential segments.
The brand is positioning itself in a prime location near the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort in Ras Al Khaimah, the emirate. The Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah is scheduled to open in 2028.
The project is being developed as part of a joint venture between Malta-based db Group and RAK Hospitality Holding (RAKHH).
The property will be operated by the joint venture company HR Hotel FZ LLC.
“Hard Rock International is proud to introduce its hotel and residence accommodations, known for its unique brand of entertainment and superior hospitality to the region,” said Todd Hricko, SVP & Head of Global Hotel Development at Hard Rock International.
“This development will open new doors for the Hard Rock global traveller in a destination with rich history and nature to explore.”
Hard Rock Hotel & Residences Ras Al Khaimah is a branded mixed-use development featuring approximately 300 hotel rooms and 395 branded residences, as well as restaurants, a rooftop bar, conference rooms, an event venue, a beach club, swimming pools, a spa, and a fitness center. The project is expected to create around 500 permanent jobs.
“We’re bringing together three distinct strengths – our deep understanding of Ras Al Khaimah’s market dynamics, db Group’s proven development expertise, and Hard Rock’s globally recognised brand appeal – to one of the most exciting lifestyle destinations in the region that will become a dynamic hub for tourism, leisure, and entertainment,” noted Alison Grinnell, CEO of RAKHH.
“This isn’t just another hotel development; it’s a catalyst for the sustained, high-quality growth that positions Ras Al Khaimah as a serious contender in the luxury and lifestyle hospitality space while supporting our broader economic diversification goals.”
Silvio Debono, Chair of db Group, added: “We are delighted to partner with RAK Hospitality Holding and Hard Rock International on this landmark project – our first major venture beyond Malta.
“With nearly four decades of experience in the hospitality sector, db Group is proud to bring its expertise to one of the region’s most dynamic and fast-growing markets. Together, we aim to deliver a world-class destination that embodies Hard Rock’s energy and spirit while offering guests a truly unique lifestyle experience on the shores of Ras Al Khaimah.”
UAE Gaming Market Continues to Take Shape
As Hard Rock prepares to begin construction on its hotel in the UAE, an increasing number of suppliers are receiving official approval to operate within the country’s regulated gaming sector.
Recently, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) — the UAE’s commercial gaming regulator — issued Gaming-Related Vendor Licenses to Light & Wonder and Konami Gaming.
Since Konami Gaming’s inception, our global growth has been achieved with an unwavering commitment to compliance,” commented Tom Jingoli, President & Chief Operating Officer at Konami Gaming.
“As the United Arab Emirates expands its economy to the regulated commercial gaming space, Konami is dedicated to supporting this market with the same integrity, innovation, and excellence we bring to all 431 gaming jurisdictions we serve worldwide.”
Among other companies that have received licenses to provide gaming-related services are Aristocrat, Smartplay, PayBy, Xpoint, EQL Games, Novomatic, IGT, Scientific Games, Random State, Fennica Gaming, TCS John Huxley Singapore, and Pollard Banknote.
The Game has been granted the right to operate the national lottery in the UAE. At the same time, Wynn Resorts has received a land-based gaming facilities license for its Wynn Al Marjan Island resort – a joint venture with Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding (RAKHH), scheduled to open in 2027.
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