When I travel home to the US for a holiday, my trips usually revolve around family and friends, not five-star hotels. But with Wynn becoming a growing presence in the UAE, I was curious to see how its Boston property, which has brought a new type of luxury to the Massachusett city, compares.
Encore Boston Harbor is in Everett, which is on the border of Boston and only a 10 to 15-minute drive from downtown. Opened in 2019, it is the most recent property from Wynn Resorts – the operators behind Wynn Al Marjah Island, which is set to open in Ras Al Khaimah in March 2027.
Encore Boston Harbor was the second gaming resort to open in the state, after MGM Springfield. It includes a hotel and restaurants, a spa, retail outlets and a harbour walk. As Wynn Al Marjah Island gets closer to completion, The National checked in to experience what Wynn Resorts offers.
The welcome
The lobby isn’t particularly busy when I check in, probably because it is a midweek afternoon. Having been to Las Vegas before, the hotel immediately feels familiar, with the polished grandeur often found in that city. Soaring ceilings, gleaming marble floors and full-length windows overlooking the waterfront create an open, elegant welcome. Trees adorned with fairy lights and a colourful Ferris wheel made of flowers add to the atrium's upscale atmosphere.
The room
I’m in the Signature Harbor View Suite, which is massive, at 125 square metres. There's an impressive view of Boston Harbour and the city skyline. The entry foyer, with a powder room off to the side, opens to a living and dining area. A corner bench and dining table are set opposite a plush sofa and a swivel chair that overlooks the floor-to-ceiling windows.
The bedroom feels calming, anchored by a comfortable king-size bed. The suite's tech includes bedside mobile charging and a wireless iPad that controls everything from curtains and lighting to temperature and entertainment. The bathroom has dual sinks, a deep tub, a rainfall shower and a seated vanity with an illuminated mirror and a built-in TV. The mini lint roller in the wardrobe is a thoughtful touch.
The food
On-site restaurants range from the more casual Dunkin’ and Shake Shack to fine dining such as Fratelli, which serves southern Italian specialities, and Red 8, known for dim sum, wok-tossed noodles and other Chinese classic dishes.
For dinner, my mother and I head to Rare Steakhouse, one of fewer than 10 restaurants in the US serving authentic Kobe beef and the only registered Kobe Beef Federation user in Massachusetts. The space is elegant and bright with a palette of whites and creams. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the harbour walk and Mystic River. As the sun sets, the fairy lights turn on, adding a nice touch to the already serene environment.
For starters, we try the Japanese Wagyu toast ($65). The four pieces of beef are soft and the toast adds crunch and because the portions are bite-sized, we move through them quickly. We also try the little gem Caesar ($25), a creamy salad with plenty of sauce and anchovies on the side.
The real stars of the evening are the mains. Since we’re dining on a Thursday, we opt for the Japanese Wagyu tasting menu ($300), which is only available on certain days. It features a trio of premium cuts: a 3oz Hyogo rib-eye, 2oz Hokkaido tenderloin and 3oz Kagoshima striploin. I might not be a meat connoisseur, but one bite is enough to understand why the restaurant has earned its reputation.
My mother chooses the Black Hawk Farms New York strip ($130), a 10oz domestic Wagyu, cooked medium. It’s tasty and well-seared, but next to the Japanese cuts, the difference is undeniable. The A5 Wagyu melts in the mouth, its richness and quality making even an excellent steak feel comparatively ordinary. We get traditional sides of mashed potatoes, corn, and mac and cheese.
We end the evening with The Mango, a vibrant dessert built on layers of coconut dacquoise, mango compote, passion fruit, pineapple and golden kiwi, topped with a mango–passion fruit mousse and a coconut crumble. It’s served with a scoop of coconut ice cream, a refreshing finale after such a rich meal.
Hotel facilities
The integrated resort caters primarily to adults, offering amenities centred on relaxation, entertainment and luxury. Unlike its Las Vegas counterparts, it does not have swimming pools.
Instead, guests can indulge at The Spa at Encore Boston Harbor, which provides massages, facials and body treatments, while the adjoining salon offers hair and beauty services. A fitness centre is also available for hotel guests.
Beyond the spa and casino, there’s the harbour walk, a landscaped waterfront park lined with art installations and scenic walking and biking paths overlooking the river. The resort’s shops include high-end boutiques such as the Wynn Collection, Wynn Boutique and Watches of Switzerland, as well as The Drugstore (which has more snacks and everyday needs).
Spa and wellness
At the five-star spa on the third floor of the hotel, I opt for a 90-minute Lomi Lomi-inspired massage. Masseuse Kate tells me about tension points and how to reduce them. After a 12-and-a-half-hour direct flight from Abu Dhabi, the massage relaxes me and helps prepare me for a wonderful night of sleep.
Family-friendly factor
The resort isn’t geared towards families. There are no dedicated play areas or kids’ clubs, and most of the restaurants within the gaming area are restricted to guests aged 21 and over. Depending on what you’re looking for, this could be either a perk or a drawback.
For travellers with children, it might mean limited options and potential boredom for younger family members. But for those seeking an adult-focused escape, the quieter atmosphere could appeal.
Accessibility and sustainability
Encore Boston Harbor is built with accessibility in mind, offering wheelchair-friendly access throughout and rooms with features such as roll-in showers, visual alert systems, lowered fixtures and Braille signage.
Public spaces, from the gaming area to the restaurants and spa, include accessible seating, and assistance from staff is always available. Guests can reserve mobility devices such as wheelchairs or motorised scooters, and service animals are permitted across the resort.
The service
The service is top-notch, especially at the amenities around the resort. My massage with Kate was insightful as I learnt about how to soothe my own tension. Sang at Rare Steakhouse was particularly helpful and knowledgeable when it came to assisting us with our menu choices.
Value for money
Rates for the Signature Harbor View Suite start from $956 (Dh3,510) per night, excluding taxes and seasonal surcharges. Check-in is from 3pm; check-out is until 11am.
This review was conducted at the invitation of the hotel and reflects hotel standards during this time. Services may change in the future.
New Zealand squad
Tim Southee (capt), Trent Boult (games 4 and 5), Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson (games 1-3), Martin Guptill, Scott Kuggeleijn, Daryl Mitchell, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Ross Taylor, Blair Tickner
TECH%20SPECS%3A%20APPLE%20WATCH%20SE%20(second%20generation)
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Our family matters legal consultant
Name: Dr Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
Greatest of All Time
Starring: Vijay, Sneha, Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, Mohan
Guardians%20of%20the%20Galaxy%20Vol%203
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDirector%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3EJames%20Gunn%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStars%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Chris%20Pratt%2C%20Zoe%20Saldana%2C%20Dave%20Bautista%2C%20Vin%20Diesel%2C%20Bradley%20Cooper%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%204%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Our legal consultant
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
More coverage from the Future Forum
Racecard
%3Cp%3E6pm%3A%20The%20Madjani%20Stakes%20%E2%80%93%20Group%202%20(PA)%20Dh97%2C500%20(Dirt)%201%2C900m%3Cbr%3E6.35pm%3A%20Graduate%20Stakes%20%E2%80%93%20Conditions%20(TB)%20Dh100%2C000%20(D)%201%2C400m%3Cbr%3E7.10pm%3A%20Longines%20Dolcevita%20Collection%20%E2%80%93%20Maiden%20(TB)%20Dh82%2C500%20(D)%201%2C400m%3Cbr%3E7.45pm%3A%20Longines%20Legend%20Driver%20Collection%20%E2%80%93%20Maiden%20(TB)%20Dh82%2C500%20(D)%201%2C600m%3Cbr%3E8.20pm%3A%20Longines%20Master%20Collection%20%E2%80%93%20Handicap%20(TB)%20Dh105%2C000%20(D)%201%2C200m%3Cbr%3E8.55pm%3A%20Longines%20Record%20Collection%20%E2%80%93%20Handicap%20(TB)%20Dh87%2C500%20(D)%202%2C200m%3Cbr%3E9.30pm%3A%20Longines%20Spirit%20Collection%20%E2%80%93%20Handicap%20(TB)%20Dh87%2C500%20(D)%201%2C600m%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Global state-owned investor ranking by size
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China
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UAE
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Japan
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Norway
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Canada
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Timeline
2012-2015
The company offers payments/bribes to win key contracts in the Middle East
May 2017
The UK SFO officially opens investigation into Petrofac’s use of agents, corruption, and potential bribery to secure contracts
September 2021
Petrofac pleads guilty to seven counts of failing to prevent bribery under the UK Bribery Act
October 2021
Court fines Petrofac £77 million for bribery. Former executive receives a two-year suspended sentence
December 2024
Petrofac enters into comprehensive restructuring to strengthen the financial position of the group
May 2025
The High Court of England and Wales approves the company’s restructuring plan
July 2025
The Court of Appeal issues a judgment challenging parts of the restructuring plan
August 2025
Petrofac issues a business update to execute the restructuring and confirms it will appeal the Court of Appeal decision
October 2025
Petrofac loses a major TenneT offshore wind contract worth €13 billion. Holding company files for administration in the UK. Petrofac delisted from the London Stock Exchange
November 2025
180 Petrofac employees laid off in the UAE
Yahya Al Ghassani's bio
Date of birth: April 18, 1998
Playing position: Winger
Clubs: 2015-2017 – Al Ahli Dubai; March-June 2018 – Paris FC; August – Al Wahda
Tonight's Chat on The National
Tonight's Chat is a series of online conversations on The National. The series features a diverse range of celebrities, politicians and business leaders from around the Arab world.
Tonight’s Chat host Ricardo Karam is a renowned author and broadcaster who has previously interviewed Bill Gates, Carlos Ghosn, Andre Agassi and the late Zaha Hadid, among others.
Intellectually curious and thought-provoking, Tonight’s Chat moves the conversation forward.
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The specs
- Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
- Power: 640hp
- Torque: 760nm
- On sale: 2026
- Price: Not announced yet
Specs
Engine: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive electric
Range: Up to 610km
Power: 905hp
Torque: 985Nm
Price: From Dh439,000
Available: Now
Results
2.30pm: Park Avenue – Conditions (PA) Dh80,000 (Dirt) 2,000m; Winner: Rb Seqondtonone, Abdul Aziz Al Balushi (jockey), Helal Al Alawi (trainer)
3.05pm: Al Furjan – Maiden (TB) Dh82,500 (Turf) 1,200m; Winner: Bosphorus, Dane O’Neill, Bhupat Seemar
3.40pm: Mina – Rated Condition (TB) Dh105,000 (D) 1,600m; Winner: Royal Mews, Tadhg O’Shea, Bhupat Seemar
4.15pm: Aliyah – Handicap (TB) Dh87,500 (T) 1,900m; Winner: Ursa Minor, Ray Dawson, Ahmad bin Harmash
4.50pm: Riviera Beach – Rated Conditions (TB) Dh95,000 (D) 2,200m; Winner: Woodditton, Saif Al Balushi, Ahmad bin Harmash
5.25pm: Riviera – Handicap (TB) Dh2,000 (T) 2,000m; Winner: Al Madhar, Antonio Fresu, Musabah Al Muhairi
6pm: Creek Views – Handicap (TB) Dh95,000 (T) 1,400m; Winner: Al Salt, Dane O’Neill, Erwan Charpy
Coal Black Mornings
Brett Anderson
Little Brown Book Group
The specs
Engine: 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo
Transmission: CVT
Power: 170bhp
Torque: 220Nm
Price: Dh98,900
White hydrogen: Naturally occurring hydrogen
Chromite: Hard, metallic mineral containing iron oxide and chromium oxide
Ultramafic rocks: Dark-coloured rocks rich in magnesium or iron with very low silica content
Ophiolite: A section of the earth’s crust, which is oceanic in nature that has since been uplifted and exposed on land
Olivine: A commonly occurring magnesium iron silicate mineral that derives its name for its olive-green yellow-green colour
Name: Brendalle Belaza
From: Crossing Rubber, Philippines
Arrived in the UAE: 2007
Favourite place in Abu Dhabi: NYUAD campus
Favourite photography style: Street photography
Favourite book: Harry Potter
UAE squad
Humaira Tasneem (c), Chamani Senevirathne (vc), Subha Srinivasan, NIsha Ali, Udeni Kuruppuarachchi, Chaya Mughal, Roopa Nagraj, Esha Oza, Ishani Senevirathne, Heena Hotchandani, Keveesha Kumari, Judith Cleetus, Chavi Bhatt, Namita D’Souza.
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Company%C2%A0profile
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War 2
Director: Ayan Mukerji
Stars: Hrithik Roshan, NTR, Kiara Advani, Ashutosh Rana
Rating: 2/5
MATCH DETAILS
Manchester United 3
Greenwood (21), Martial (33), Rashford (49)
Partizan Belgrade 0
Jawan
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SPECS
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Schedule:
Friday, January 12: Six fourball matches
Saturday, January 13: Six foursome (alternate shot) matches
Sunday, January 14: 12 singles
SPEC%20SHEET%3A%20APPLE%20IPHONE%2014%20PRO%20MAX
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Results
6.30pm: Maiden Dh165,000 (Dirt) 1,200m
Winner: Barack Beach, Richard Mullen (jockey), Satish Seemar (trainer).
7.05pm: Handicap Dh170,000 (D) 1,200m
Winner: Way Of Wisdom, Connor Beasley, Satish Seemar.
7.40pm: Maiden Dh165,000 (D) 1,900m
Winner: Woodditton, Connor Beasley, Ahmad bin Harmash.
8.15pm: Handicap Dh185,000 (D) 2,000m
Winner: Secret Trade, Sandro Paiva, Ali Rashid Al Raihe.
8.50pm: Handicap Dh185,000 (D) 1,600m
Winner: Mark Of Approval, Antonio Fresu, Mahmood Hussain.
9.25pm: Handicap Dh165,000 (D) 2,000m
Winner: Tradesman, Pat Dobbs, Doug Watson.
Takreem Awards winners 2021
Corporate Leadership: Carl Bistany (Lebanon)
Cultural Excellence: Hoor Al Qasimi (UAE)
Environmental Development and Sustainability: Bkerzay (Lebanon)
Environmental Development and Sustainability: Raya Ani (Iraq)
Humanitarian and Civic Services: Women’s Programs Association (Lebanon)
Humanitarian and Civic Services: Osamah Al Thini (Libya)
Excellence in Education: World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) (Qatar)
Outstanding Arab Woman: Balghis Badri (Sudan)
Scientific and Technological Achievement: Mohamed Slim Alouini (KSA)
Young Entrepreneur: Omar Itani (Lebanon)
Lifetime Achievement: Suad Al Amiry (Palestine)
Scoreline
Man Utd 2 Pogba 27', Martial 49'
Everton 1 Sigurdsson 77'
Mercer, the investment consulting arm of US services company Marsh & McLennan, expects its wealth division to at least double its assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East as wealth in the region continues to grow despite economic headwinds, a company official said.
Mercer Wealth, which globally has $160 billion in AUM, plans to boost its AUM in the region to $2-$3bn in the next 2-3 years from the present $1bn, said Yasir AbuShaban, a Dubai-based principal with Mercer Wealth.
“Within the next two to three years, we are looking at reaching $2 to $3 billion as a conservative estimate and we do see an opportunity to do so,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Mercer does not directly make investments, but allocates clients’ money they have discretion to, to professional asset managers. They also provide advice to clients.
“We have buying power. We can negotiate on their (client’s) behalf with asset managers to provide them lower fees than they otherwise would have to get on their own,” he added.
Mercer Wealth’s clients include sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and insurance companies among others.
From its office in Dubai, Mercer also looks after Africa, India and Turkey, where they also see opportunity for growth.
Wealth creation in Middle East and Africa (MEA) grew 8.5 per cent to $8.1 trillion last year from $7.5tn in 2015, higher than last year’s global average of 6 per cent and the second-highest growth in a region after Asia-Pacific which grew 9.9 per cent, according to consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG). In the region, where wealth grew just 1.9 per cent in 2015 compared with 2014, a pickup in oil prices has helped in wealth generation.
BCG is forecasting MEA wealth will rise to $12tn by 2021, growing at an annual average of 8 per cent.
Drivers of wealth generation in the region will be split evenly between new wealth creation and growth of performance of existing assets, according to BCG.
Another general trend in the region is clients’ looking for a comprehensive approach to investing, according to Mr AbuShaban.
“Institutional investors or some of the families are seeing a slowdown in the available capital they have to invest and in that sense they are looking at optimizing the way they manage their portfolios and making sure they are not investing haphazardly and different parts of their investment are working together,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Some clients also have a higher appetite for risk, given the low interest-rate environment that does not provide enough yield for some institutional investors. These clients are keen to invest in illiquid assets, such as private equity and infrastructure.
“What we have seen is a desire for higher returns in what has been a low-return environment specifically in various fixed income or bonds,” he said.
“In this environment, we have seen a de facto increase in the risk that clients are taking in things like illiquid investments, private equity investments, infrastructure and private debt, those kind of investments were higher illiquidity results in incrementally higher returns.”
The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds, said in its 2016 report that has gradually increased its exposure in direct private equity and private credit transactions, mainly in Asian markets and especially in China and India. The authority’s private equity department focused on structured equities owing to “their defensive characteristics.”
