Tom Roelens

A prominent figure in Dubai's hospitality sector, Tom Roelens, who has been managing director of Atlantis Dubai (including Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal), is making a move to the UAE's first casino resort, Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort in Ras Al Khaimah. He will step into the role of chief operating officer at this integrated resort, which will house the country's inaugural casino. Roelens expressed excitement on LinkedIn, thanking Wynn Resorts' Craig Billings and Max Tappeiner for the opportunity to work with the team in this new venture. He will be joined by two other new hires: Sherri DeSalvio, appointed vice president of pre-opening planning and strategic initiatives, and David Patent, named vice president of casino operations. Patent, with prior experience at VizExplorer and Caesars Entertainment, will manage gaming operations, while DeSalvio, a Wynn veteran since 2008, will focus on strategic initiatives. The team will report to President Max Tappeiner as the resort, set to open in 2027, continues development with local partners Marjan LLC and RAK Hospitality Holding LLC.