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Construction of MGM Resorts’ hotels in Dubai on track; opening in Q3 2028, says CEO
MGM Resorts International has a non-gaming management agreement with Dubai’s Wasl Hospitality to bring the Bellagio, Aria, and MGM Grand brands to the emirate
- PUBLISHED: Fri 6 Feb 2026, 4:11 PM
Work on the US-based MGM Resorts International’s hotels in Dubai is on track, with opening expected in the third quarter of 2028, a senior official said on Friday.
“Construction remains on schedule in Dubai, with Bellagio, Aria and MGM Grand Hotel towers scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2028,” Bill Hornbuckle, President and CEO of MGM Resorts International, said during the Q4 2025 earnings call with analysts.
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As reported by Khaleej Times earlier, the opening of the hotels, which were scheduled to open in early 2027, was delayed to the second half of 2028.
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MGM Resorts International has a non-gaming management agreement with Dubai’s Wasl Hospitality to bring the Bellagio, Aria, and MGM Grand brands to the emirate.
The Las Vegas-based MGM Resorts is the second US-based hotelier and gaming operator to receive a licence to operate properties in the UAE. Wynn Resorts was the first to receive a licence to operate an integrated gaming resort — Wynn Al Marjan — in Ras Al Khaimah. Wynn Al Marjan is scheduled to open next year.
The UAE’s hospitality sector has been growing exceptionally over the past five years due to an influx of tourists and the growing trend of staycations.
According to the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, the sixth edition of the “World's Most Beautiful Winter” campaign achieved positive results across the UAE as hotel revenues reached Dh12.5 billion. The total number of hotel guests reached approximately 5 million, representing a 5 per cent increase compared to the fifth edition of the campaign. Hotel occupancy rates also reached 84 per cent, reflecting a 2 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
In addition, the number of hotel establishments has also grown to meet the demand, providing more opportunities to residents and visitors.
According to Skyscanner data, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are popular 2026 holiday choices for travellers in Germany, Switzerland, Canada and South Korea, with people choosing destinations for enjoyable accommodation experiences as part of their trips.
The Travel Trends Report 2026 revealed that travellers are turning their attention to authentic destinations that fly further under the radar but offer something fresh beyond popular spots.
MGM Resorts’ consolidated net revenues reached $4.6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025, an increase of 6 per cent compared to the prior year quarter. Net income attributable to MGM Resorts reached $294 million, compared to $157 million in the prior year quarter.
