New York City stands on the cusp of a new era for casino gaming, with Resorts World being the first to enter the land-based commercial market.
In December 2025, the Genting-owned firm acquired a state-issued license to expand its existing premises via a package that included a phased launch - beginning March 2026.
Such a rapid market entry not only presented an opportunity to claim a head start over fellow licensees – Bally's and Hard Rock at Metropolitan Park –but it would also immediately prove the efficacy of this project to the New York Gaming Commission (NYGC).
For customers, Resorts World's expansion seeks to deliver 800 gaming tables, 6,000 slot machines and 2,000 hotel rooms across a 5.6-million-square-foot venue.
However, a Resorts World website update suggests that expectations may have shifted somewhat, and players might need to wait a little longer before accessing the all-new gaming amenities…
Spring rollout looks unlikely: NYC casino now set to open this summer?
Speed-to-market represented a core point of focus throughout the certification process, as Resorts World outlined to state officials that it could attract revenue earlier than competitors.
But it seems that internal timelines have potentially shifted, and Resorts World New York City may not meet its March 2026 launch.
News comes by way of the Resorts World 'Next Chapter' webpage, which states: "Resorts World New York City can become a commercial casino as soon as Summer 2026."
Previous versions of that page had neglected specific timelines, and instead outlined plans to attract "incremental revenue almost immediately" upon obtaining a license.
Further, Resorts World described plans for a March 2026 opening to Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB) members. When the GFLB recommended Resorts World to the Gaming Commission for licensing on December 1, 2025, it too mentioned a spring rollout:
"The Applicant (Resorts World) currently expects the converted facility to open in March
2026, with completion of the expansion in 2029 and full project completion in 2031."
In the same document, the GFLB noted that construction and regulatory challenges could delay the operator's schedule:
"Resorts World New York City's projected March 2026 opening may underestimate regulatory and construction complexities. Continued and diligent oversight and coordination will be necessary to ensure timely delivery."
Nevertheless, a summer 2026 opening would align with Resorts World's six-month post-licensing scheme; the Group has occasionally referenced that it will look to offer expanded services within six months of earning certification.
Given that the NYGC granted its license in December 2025, a June 2026 opening would technically maintain that projected timeline.
This suggests that on-site references to a summer opening do not necessarily herald an outright delay, but that the operator is actively allowing room for possible interruptions.
Resorts World New York City declined to respond to a timeline clarification request at the time of writing. However, given the GFLB's lacking confidence in a March 2026 launch and irreconcilable public timelines, a spring debut appears unlikely.
What to expect at launch and beyond
In addition to 6,000 slots and 800 gaming tables, the $5.5bn 'integrated resort' project is expected to offer a 7,000-seat entertainment complex, 7,000 parking spaces and 30 dining options upon completion.
But, because Resorts World is following a phased opening, launch day visitors will only be allowed to access limited expansion facilities.
While up to 250 table games and 4,000 slot machines are anticipated to be available by summer 2026, the operator does not expect to take bookings for its multi-purpose seated arena and new hotel rooms this year.
Rather, amenities will become increasingly active between 2026 and 2031 – first focusing on gaming capacity, and later targeting entertainment accoutrements. An example of this effort was outlined during the GFLB's November 2025 visit, when staff showcased an under-construction "fourth floor for gaming opportunity".
Accessibility measures will also come to the fore, as Resorts World endeavors to increase safety and transport viability.
Premium lounges are another key element unlikely to arrive by summer 2026; Resorts World plans to install separate, specialized gaming suites designed for high-rollers who value privacy.
Other tangible Resorts World-funded developments include 10 acres of "publicly accessible greenspace", a community wellness center and 'The Jet Center' - a sports and media campus tailored to social, economic and cultural sports impact.
Thus, those visiting Resorts World in 2026 should anticipate upgraded gaming resources and enhanced facilities, albeit without all improvements chronicled in marketing material. For that, customers must wait several years.
What a 2026 launch means for New York
From the outset, Resorts World promised regulators and state officials that it would offer enhanced casino services quicker than both Bally's and Hard Rock.
Already boasting high-volume engagement at the Aqueduct Racetrack racino, the message to the GFLB and NYGC was clear: Resorts World could offer immediate tax revenue for the wider area.
Specifically, Resorts World forecasts $5bn in state tax revenue within four years of acquiring a New York commercial casino license. In turn, the firm has until December 2029 to achieve such a return.
It is therefore reasonable to assume that any delay to operational maneuvers could meaningfully affect revenue flow projections. If Resorts World is now plotting a summer 2026 opening over March, that leaves three months of missed performance - both for the State and operator.
In terms of employment opportunities, the establishment would support instant job generation, scaling in line with growing business needs.
A total of 5,000 permanent workers are expected to join Resorts World New York City, with Queens' residents expected to comprise 50% of that figure.
Also noteworthy is the firm's significant community development investment; $2bn of the $7.5bn project budget shall be set aside for local enhancement opportunities.
Bally's and Hard Rock present long-term challenges
Although neither Bally's or Hard Rock at Metropolitan Park are set to open before 2030, both operators will rival Resorts World for foot-traffic and revenue.
Pertinently, if current timelines remain accurate, the pair will begin onboarding customers at fully-constructed venues one year before Resorts World completes site construction in 2031. It is important to note that the GFLB is prepared for either rival operator to modify scheduling, branding 2030 openings as "optimistic given project scale and urban constraints".
In any case, all three operators must exist simultaneously in order to meet state duty estimates. Doubt over internal projections has already been cast - during pre-licensing consultations, Resorts World revenue forecasts "significantly exceeded" that of committee officials, whereas Bally's in-house predictions fell short of consultative figures.
Even if Resorts World only accomplishes initial construction by summer 2026, it preserves its first-to-market status in the contemporary New York commercial casino industry. Longer-term tests will emerge down the line, however, and the operator must cement its position as a state leader before peers vie for market attention.
