Integrated resorts are reshaping the future of tourism in the Middle East and Asia Pacific (APAC) by combining luxury, entertainment, and cultural immersion into holistic destination experiences. Experts at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 highlighted how these developments are not only transforming guest expectations but also unlocking new revenue streams and regional tourism potential.
The eagerly awaited Wynn Al Marjan Island, slated to open in Ras Al Khaimah in 2027, represents a pivotal shift in the UAE’s approach to tourism. Similarly, Cinnamon Life’s City of Dreams in Sri Lanka, with a regulated casino component, marks the region’s growing embrace of gaming as part of broader integrated offerings.
Gaming as a Catalyst, Not the Centre
During a key panel session, industry experts discussed how gaming fits into the larger resort narrative. Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO of Cinnamon Life Hotel & Mall, stressed that casinos must not dominate the identity of these destinations.
“A sense of place is critical to making a successful integrated project… It’s far beyond the positioning of ‘I’ve got a casino,’” he said.
Instead, music, wellness, cuisine, storytelling, and local culture were cited as the true pillars of guest engagement. The message was clear: gaming enhances, but does not define, the integrated resort model.
Economic Impact and Strategic Growth
The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), established in 2023, plays a central role in ensuring that this new industry develops in a regulated, responsible, and sustainable manner. Experts estimate that annual gross gaming revenues (GGR) in the UAE could reach US$3 to US$5 billion, with Ras Al Khaimah targeting 3.5 million overnight tourists by 2030.
New resorts are also forecast to generate thousands of jobs and attract high-spending visitors from India, Saudi Arabia, Europe, and the UAE’s expat population—many drawn by the blend of luxury, adrenaline activities, and personalised service.
Integrated Experiences for Multi-Generational Travellers
Judith Cartwright of Black Coral Consulting, Darren Bishop of Heart+Mind Strategies, and Edward Batrouni of Zenitech all echoed the trend of multi-generational, experiential travel, noting that integrated resorts are increasingly designed to appeal to families, couples, and older affluent audiences alike.
Although research shows that gaming ranks lower among visitor priorities, its role in enhancing revenue is undeniable. In similar global models, gaming has been shown to boost visitor spend by up to 30%, especially when paired with high-end services and immersive environments.
Future Outlook: Cultural Anchoring and Community Buy-In
Speakers emphasised the importance of community support and cultural relevance. In markets like Sri Lanka, local stakeholder engagement and regulatory transparency have helped projects like City of Dreams gain momentum and acceptance.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME at Arabian Travel Market, summed it up:
“It’s not just about gaming but about crafting a sense of place, telling compelling stories, and building meaningful cultural connections.”
With a focus on responsible innovation, personalised hospitality, and experiential depth, integrated resorts in MENA and APAC are rapidly becoming more than just destinations—they are transforming into cultural and economic cornerstones of future tourism.
