The Future of Travel: Integrated Resorts in the Middle East
Integrated resorts in the Middle East and Asia Pacific are changing the hospitality industry by combining luxury, entertainment, and local culture into destination experiences, according to experts at Arabian Travel Market (ATM).
The upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, set to open in 2027, highlights this trend, along with Sri Lanka’s Cinnamon Life City of Dreams, which includes a new casino as part of its resort offering.
Experts predict that the UAE’s annual gaming revenues could reach between USD 3 billion and USD 5 billion as integrated resorts continue to grow. Ras Al Khaimah aims to attract 3.5 million overnight visitors by 2030, with major tourism projects expected to generate new job opportunities.
At ATM 2025, industry experts discussed how integrated resorts are reshaping tourist expectations across key markets, including India, China, the GCC, and Europe. Panellists emphasised that success comes from combining art, music, food, wellness, and cultural elements, not just gaming.
Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO of Cinnamon Life Hotel & Mall in Sri Lanka, noted the importance of creating a strong connection with the local destination: “It’s not just about having a casino; it’s about connecting with the place and community.”
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director at Arabian Travel Market, said the event showed how integrated resorts are evolving beyond gaming, focusing on cultural stories and experiences that appeal to a wide range of travellers.
Speakers also emphasised the importance of community support and government collaboration in countries like Sri Lanka, where gaming is a relatively new regulatory area. In the UAE, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) was established in 2023 to oversee gaming and ensure its responsible development.
Research presented at the event showed that while gaming ranks lower on many visitors’ priority lists, it is a strong revenue driver among older, affluent travellers and can boost spending by around 30% in resorts globally.
With strong interest from India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and European travellers, integrated resorts are expected to continue reshaping tourism across the region.
The Arabian Travel Market will return from May 4 to 7, 2026. The 2025 edition welcomed over 55,000 professionals from 166 countries and featured more than 2,800 exhibitors.
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