Dubai-based wasl Hospitality and Leisure, a subsidiary of real estate development firm wasl Asset Management Group, has selected MGM Hospitality to advise on the development of a premier destination resort in the UAE emirate.

The 26-acre prime beachfront development, which will feature an MGM Hotel, MGM Residences and a Bellagio Hotel, will mark the debut of the iconic MGM and Bellagio brand names in the Middle East region.

To be operated by MGM post completion, the integrated resort will be an entertainment destination of the future, featuring a wide spectrum of activities for all ages.

"We are excited and honoured by the opportunity to introduce our incredible brands in one of the world's fastest growing tourist destinations. This marks the first time we will offer multiple MGM luxury brands at a prime beachfront location," said Bill Hornbuckle, president of MGM Resorts. "This agreement, which makes us the development advisor and operator, reflects our commitment to remaining disciplined and focused in our investments while continuing to advance our brand of entertainment resorts in markets around the world."

The project was presented to His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, by officials from both MGM Resorts and wasl Asset Management Group.

Hesham Al Qassim, CEO of wasl Asset Management Group, said: "Wasl is proud to be working in partnership with such an internationally acclaimed hotel and resort operator; it is a major milestone and we are very excited to be bringing MGM Resorts on our journey to making Dubai the world's best city to visit, work and live in. The collaboration also fulfils wasl's mandate to attract global hospitality players to Dubai, where we are constantly striving to raise the bar in the city by offering tourists, residents and visitors ever more sensational hospitality and entertainment experiences."

As part of the 2 million-sq-ft development, more than a half-million sq ft will feature a dazzling theatre, an exciting mix of culinary venues ranging from gourmet to casual dining, specialty retail shops, traditional and interactive museums, a sprawling beach club and thrilling adventure zones for both adults and children. The new property will include 1,000 rooms and feature 10 villas and will occupy the longest stretch of waterfront ever developed in Dubai serving as the "anchor" of the expansive beach. - TradeArabia News Service