Momentum Group, Fanatics and Wynn Resorts are making significant moves in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gambling market.
A strategic joint venture in the UAE’s iGaming market has begun between Momentum and Fanatics, combining the UAE operator’s regional expertise, regulatory standing, and operational depth, with the global digital sports platform’s product knowledge, technology, and speed-to-scale capability.
Meanwhile, Wynn Resorts is developing its live entertainment offering at the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island resort through a partnership with immersive theatre company Punchdrunk, with an original stage production to be created exclusively for Wynn and directed by Punchdrunk’s Artistic Director and Founder, Felix Barrett, in cooperation with Wynn Resorts Chief Executive Officer, Craig Billings.
Momentum and Fanatics team up
With approval from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the Fanatics-Momentum joint venture will also include the UAE operator’s existing commercial gaming licenses and operations in the country, supplying its licensed platforms with a focus on customer experience, technology and sustainable long-term growth.
Scott Burton, Chief Operating Officer of Momentum Group, noted: “The UAE has built one of the world’s most carefully regulated commercial gaming markets, and this joint venture is a reflection of the confidence that brings.
“Combining Momentum’s regional experience with Fanatics’ global product capability creates a partnership well placed to grow alongside this market for the long term.”
The joint venture represents Fanatics’ strategic entry into the UAE commercial gaming market. In North America, its sportsbook is online in 23 US states and the District of Columbia, while its casino offering is available in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Conor Grant, President of Fanatics Gaming, added: “The UAE is establishing one of the most thoughtfully regulated commercial gaming markets in the world, and Momentum has demonstrated what a responsible, credible operation within it looks like.
“We are entering this market for the long term, committed to building something genuinely category-defining together.”
The joint venture will see Momentum and Fanatics:
- Invest in technology, product and customer experience.
- Advance industry standards for responsible gaming and player protection.
- Expand access to world-class regulated gaming products in the UAE.
- Contribute to the wider development of the UAE’s digital economy.
Immersive theatre to Wynn Al Marjan Island
Wynn Resorts is bringing immersive theatre to the MENA region with Punchdrunk, debuting with the opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island in 2027.
Inspired by the traditional Las Vegas revue-style show, the original stage production will engage with audiences by blending performance styles, theatrical worlds and audience perspectives, featuring songs and dance and inviting audiences to choose how they experience the story in the Art Deco-influenced theatre.
Guests can pick from a traditional seated performance upstairs or a roaming immersive journey downstairs and backstage, with each perspective offering a unique view on the same narrative, and every part of the theatre playing a role in the immersive experience.
Billings said: “Among the dozens of unique and transportive guest experiences we offer in our resorts, entertainment has always been an essential element.
“With Punchdrunk, we are creating something entirely original for Wynn Al Marjan Island. A theatrical world that could only exist here, and one that reflects the craft and dedication to artistry at the heart of Wynn.”
Barrett added: “I’m thrilled that Punchdrunk is partnering with Craig S. Billings and his brilliant team at Wynn Resorts to create a brand-new show for the extraordinary new theatre at Wynn Al Marjan Island.
“We hope the production will deliver a spectacular theatrical experience, both for audiences seeking world-class entertainment and for those in search of something truly unexpected.”