So lots of wacky news while we were gone. First up we have news just this side of shocking, that Dubai World is getting their gamble on.

As part of their deal with MGM Mirage (see Dubai invests $5 billion in Vegas) Dubai World needs a gambling license in Nevada.

Of course in Islam gambling as well as any form of business activity where monetary gains are derived from mere chance is forbidden (Haraam).

I've even read that the mere invitation to gamble is such a serious sin as to warrant atonement.

Sounds like someone at Dubai World needs a catchup of Maisir.

The Associated Press
Dubai World files for Nevada gambling license
April 10, 2008

CARSON CITY, Nev. - Nevada regulators have begun what's likely to be a lengthy review of a bid by Dubai World, investment arm of Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, for a state gambling license required if its ownership of MGM Mirage's outstanding stock tops 10 percent.

State law requires shareholders with more than a 10 percent stake in a Nevada gambling company to be licensed. The application was filed in December with the state Gaming Control Board, although it's not clear yet whether Dubai World will boost its interest in MGM Mirage.

Dubai World already has committed $5.1 billion for a 9.4 percent stake in MGM Mirage plus a 50-50 ownership of CityCenter in Las Vegas. CityCenter is owned by a joint venture formed by MGM Mirage and Dubai World last year. Both entities must get separate gambling licenses to own and operate CityCenter.

Michigan casino regulators on Tuesday authorized Dubai World's request for approval to increase its MGM Mirage stake to 14.75 percent. MGM Mirage's holdings in Michigan include the MGM Grand Detroit casino, which opened in 1997, and its permanent casino, hotel and entertainment complex, which opened in October.

An agreement between MGM Mirage and Infinity World, part of Dubai World, allows Dubai World to acquire up to 20 percent of MGM's common stock.

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On the Net:

MGM Mirage Inc.: http://www.mgmmirage.com

Dubai World: http://www.dubaiworld.ae

© The Associated Press