How Integrated Resorts Shift the Map
Integrated resorts are redefining the travel industry across the Middle East and Asia Pacific. They combine hospitality, entertainment, regulation, and local identity into one destination. Experts describe this trend as a strategic response to evolving traveller demands.
Wynn and Cinnamon Set Standards
The planned opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah in 2027 marks a major development. It reflects the emirate’s broader goal to welcome 3.5 million overnight visitors annually by 2030. Alongside this, Cinnamon Life’s City of Dreams project in Sri Lanka is introducing gaming under a regulated, culturally sensitive model.
Both projects stand for a new approach. Rather than focusing solely on gaming, they are placing cultural storytelling, gastronomy, wellness, and local identity at the centre.
Integrated Resorts Require Cultural Depth
At Arabian Travel Market 2025, experts from the hospitality, research, and technology sectors outlined the factors behind the success of integrated resorts. They agreed that a strong sense of place, shaped by local context and narrative, is more relevant than ever.
Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO of Cinnamon Life Hotel & Mall, noted that a resort must not place the casino at its core. Instead, it should align with the destination’s texture, history, and community. This approach creates depth and meaning that attracts discerning travellers.
Regulation and Technology Drive Trust
In the UAE, the creation of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in 2023 established a framework for oversight and compliance. This development enables sustainable growth while setting a benchmark for responsible gaming in the region.
At the same time, technological innovation supports greater personalisation. Data-driven services allow resorts to tailor experiences more precisely, improving satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Integrated Resorts Strengthen Economic Output
While gaming is not the main reason people choose a destination, it contributes significantly to revenue. It appeals particularly to older, affluent travellers who associate gaming with exclusivity and status. Research from similar global markets suggests a 30 percent increase in guest spending when gaming is part of the offering.
Demand from Regional and International Markets
Interest is growing in key source markets such as India, China, and the Gulf states. European travellers are also increasingly seeking cultural experiences that offer both privacy and quality. Integrated resorts appear well positioned to meet these combined expectations.
Outlook for Arabian Travel Market and Sector Growth
The 2025 edition of Arabian Travel Market welcomed more than 55,000 industry professionals from 166 countries. The event showed a 16 percent increase in attendance compared to the previous year. It also reflected the rising importance of integrated resort models as a key development in the travel and hospitality industry.
The next edition will take place from 4 to 7 May 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
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