A top executive for Wynn Resorts told Nevada regulators Thursday that construction is continuing on its $5 billion casino resort in the United Arab Emirates and a Bally’s executive touted the development opportunities at the former Tropicana Las Vegas site.
The Wynn resort at Al Marjan Island is scheduled to open in early 2027, even as the UAE has faced attacks from neighboring Iran, which has been locked in a battle with the U.S. and Israel that started in February. The project was shut down for a couple of days.
“We have been in constant contact with our team members in the UAE, and I would like to commend them for their remarkable commitment,” said Jacqui Krum, executive vice president and general counsel, who appeared before the Nevada Gaming Commission where she was approved for a state license. “It’s been very difficult for them.”
The Wynn design and development team continues to oversee construction and the executive team continues to lead operational planning and efficiency, Krum said.
“Some of them have relocated to different places, based on the advice of their embassies,” Krum said. “Construction is ongoing and we’re dedicated to the safety and security of team members while working on the site.”
Vladmira Mircheva, chief financial officer and executive vice president with Bally’s Corp., touched on the plans on the former Tropicana site, where the A’s have a $2 billion baseball stadium under construction to open in 2028.
“We’re in active conversations with potential partners for entertainment and retail venues, so the development work continues actively behind the scene,” Mircheva said.
Mircheva said Bally’s Lake Tahoe has opportunities for the property longer term. The competition has increased, and Bally’s is spending a lot on maintenance to keep it in good shape, she said. “We don’t have bigger plans that I can discuss, but it’s a core asset in our portfolio and we think there’s longer-term potential for it.”
In other action, the Commission approved Michael Gaughan III, who has faced criticism for not promptly replying to requests for documents as part of his licensing. He faced some criticism from members for not completely accepting responsibility and his lack of communication with agents. He apologized to the Commission. He said his bank account was hacked and that delayed his submissions to investigators.
Commission members praised the Gaughan family legacy and what it’s done for Nevada gaming. The Commission signed off on the Nevada Gaming Control Board recommendation to license Gaughan, son of South Point Casino owner Michael Gaughan.
“Your family has been extraordinary in the gaming industry,’ said Commission member Brian Krolicki. “You of all people, you’ve got to be responsive, transparent, and communicative. It’s not fun to be in the woodshed, but my goodness. If it were not for the totality of your family’s engagement and you being licensed 13 times, this might be a very different conversation.”
Krolicki said he understands being hacked, but the failure to pick up a phone to let agents know is inexcusable, even if he can’t readily produce all the information. He urged others under consideration for licensees to cooperate and learn this lesson.
The younger Gaughan has an ownership share in Stockman’s Casino in Fallon as part of Clarity Game, of which he is co-owner. The company acquired the property in September 2024 for $9.2 million from Full House Resorts. He had a limited license for one year.