MGM Resorts is embarking on a new project in Dubai with the construction of their own “Dubai Sphere,” promising it to be just as exciting as the Las Vegas Sphere. The CEO and president, Bill Hornbuckle, stated that the Sphere in Dubai will be equally compelling and will feature three MGM Resorts brands – MGM, Bellagio, and Aria – with the Sphere sitting in the middle. The project, which has been in the works since 2017, recently saw progress this year with the construction contract being awarded for its development.
The Dubai iteration of the Sphere will be smaller than the one in Las Vegas in terms of capacity, with plans describing it as part of a 110-meter-high entertainment tower that can accommodate up to 300 guests at a time for 3D light and sound effects shows. While the Dubai Sphere is not affiliated with Sphere Entertainment, the company behind the Las Vegas Sphere, MGM Resorts is open to finding a partner for the project in the future. Sphere Entertainment has expressed interest in expanding its global footprint by licensing smaller spaces in different markets.
Progress on the MGM Resorts project in Dubai is underway, with no official opening date yet. The complex is currently planned as a non-gaming destination, but plans could change in the future. There is speculation about the possibility of obtaining a casino license in Dubai, with Hornbuckle mentioning the cultural shift in the country and the potential for gaming to be socially accepted. MGM has partnered with Wasl, a major hotel owner and developer in Dubai, and has applied for a casino license in Abu Dhabi.
Overall, the Dubai Sphere project by MGM Resorts is moving forward, with Hornbuckle highlighting the potential of Dubai as a market for gaming and entertainment. The development, which includes three major MGM Resorts brands and a distinctive Sphere in the middle, aims to showcase the history and growth of Dubai as a vibrant and dynamic city. With progress being made on the project, MGM Resorts is optimistic about the potential for gaming in Dubai and the opportunities it presents for attracting tourists from various regions. The partnership with Wasl and the government’s involvement in the project indicate a commitment to creating a unique and engaging experience for visitors.
