The countdown is on for Wynn Al Marjan Island, the casino resort set to open in Ras Al Khaimah in September 2027, and the emirate's existing hotels are not waiting around. According to Alison Grinnell, CEO of Marjan Hospitality, the hospitality arm of the emirate's master developer, properties across the destination are embarking on refurbishments to make sure they look sharp when the world's attention lands on their doorstep.
Two big projects are already underway. Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah is refreshing 323 rooms in its main building as part of a move upmarket, with the new premium positioning rolling out in December. Meanwhile, the Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island is reworking 300 rooms and will relaunch as an adults-only property in the second quarter of 2027 — timed almost exactly to the Wynn's opening.
The logic is straightforward. Many of Ras Al Khaimah's hotels are approaching the ten-year mark in their lifecycle, and Grinnell noted that when glossy new competitors arrive, neighbouring properties want their routine upgrades completed well in advance. The plan, she said, was always to get existing hotels renovated before the Wynn opened, rather than scrambling afterwards.
There's another shift travellers should know about: fewer all-inclusive packages. As the destination repositions itself toward a more premium, casino-led audience, hotels are expected to scale back the all-inclusive deals that made Ras Al Khaimah a budget-friendly alternative to Dubai. Expect more à la carte dining and higher rates across the board.
Why should this matter to you? Ras Al Khaimah has long been the quiet corner of the UAE — mountains, beaches and the country's highest peak, Jebel Jais, without Dubai's price tag. The Wynn effect is likely to change that. If you've been meaning to visit on the cheap, the window is closing; book before late 2027 if you want current prices and roomier all-inclusive options. On the flip side, if you prefer adult-only resorts or smarter hotels, the post-2027 Ras Al Khaimah may suit you better — and you'll get a casino resort on a man-made island as a bonus.
Travellers planning ahead should keep an eye on the Pullman's adults-only relaunch in Q2 2027 and Rixos Al Mairid's upgraded rooms, both of which will compete hard on quality once the Wynn opens its doors.
