Gambling in Dubai: Following in Las Vegas’ footsteps?

UAE prepares for casinos: Online searches surge ahead of 2026 RAK luxury resort launch.

As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) moves closer to legalizing casino gambling interest in the topic has skyrocketed according to Google Trends data. With the opening of the first casino in Ras Al Khaimah  the UAE is set to experience a first in the region.

Casino searches peak ahead of Wynn Al Marjan Resort opening

Nearly two years on from the announcement of the Wynn Al Marjan Resort in RAK which is set to open in 2026 casino-related searches have increased significantly reaching their peak last year. Reports also surfaced last year that MGM was gearing up to launch a casino island in Dubai. However Arabian Business was unable to verify the information.

Emirati from Dubai search most for casinos keywords

The highest number of searches were recorded in Dubai followed by Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Quwain, and Ajman.

The surge in online search activity for casinos could signal excitement for a new form of entertainment. However, experts have warned of the risks of gambling addiction and have offered tips for responsible gambling. The UAE is on the verge of regulating and legalizing the casino industry, a first for the region.

Discipline is key when gambling

“It’s a new concept for the UAE and people will naturally be curious and even excited about a new entertainment option,” Carol Glynn, a financial coach and founder of Conscious Finance Coaching, told Arabian Business.

Debt is a major concern, she said, as she worries that many in the region might approach legal gaming as a means of making money rather than as a form of entertainment.

“With a casino opening there are now more outlets for people to potentially overspend”, said Glynn.

She recommends setting strict budgets for gambling activities, tracking spending, and avoiding the temptation to chase losses.

“Discipline is key when it comes to gaming and gambling,” Glynn said. “Do not fall into the detrimental trap of the sunk cost fallacy.”

“Treat it as a leisure expense and a way to have some fun, not as a money-making opportunity.”

Financial education helps with responsible gambling

Financial education programs can play a significant role in empowering individuals and families to set realistic and sustainable boundaries for their gambling activities, according to Glynn. She suggested creating a dedicated line item in personal budgets for gaming expenses, treating it as a leisure activity rather than a potential source of income.

“Understanding the limitations of their income and regular expenses on the amount they can assign to gambling is key,” Glynn advised.

Mental health and self-regulation in gambling

As the UAE continues its path toward regulating the casino industry, experts have also called for self-regulation and individual discipline.

“While some may view the regulated environment as a safeguard it’s important for individuals to take proactive steps to protect their well-being”, said Nusrat Khan a licensed psychologist at the Human Relations Innovation Centre (HRIC) in Dubai.

The clinical psychologist recommended a range of safeguards including self-exclusion programs, responsible gambling tools, education and awareness campaigns, staff training, integration of mental health services, and collaboration between government agency mental health professionals gambling operators and community organizations.

“By implementing these safeguards, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their gambling behavior, reduce the risk of harm associated with gambling and promote the well-being of individuals and communities,” Khan stated.

Residents should approach the casino industry change sensibly by educating themselves about the risks of gambling, setting clear financial boundaries and seeking support if needed.