Saskatchewan's Dakota Dunes Casino completes phase 1 expansion

The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) marked the completion of Phase 1 of the Dakota Dunes Casino expansion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week, highlighting new gaming space, job creation, and future development plans at the resort.

Phase 1 of the project includes the reopening of a newly expanded smoking room, adding 11,500 square feet of gaming floor space to the casino. The expansion is part of a multi-phase development aimed at enhancing the guest experience and strengthening economic opportunities for First Nations communities.

The next phase of construction is scheduled for completion in spring 2026 and will expand the High Limit Room table game area. A further phase planned for summer 2026 will introduce a new food and beverage area, featuring a refreshed Tim Hortons deli, a bar, and a teppanyaki-style noodle bar.

Saskatoon Tribal Council Tribal Chief Mark Arcand said the project reflects continued progress in creating employment and economic growth for First Nations people. “The good jobs that are being created here for First Nations people are a stepping stone to improved quality of life for individuals and families, he stated. "The additional revenue generated by this expansion will support continued economic development, and many worthy initiatives both in Saskatoon and in our STC member communities.”

Whitecap Dakota Nation Chief Darcy Bear said the casino expansion aligns with other major developments underway at the resort. “All of these enhancements will only further increase the number of visitors and position the property as the premier destination resort in the province," Darcy Bear noted.

Moreover, SIGA Board Chair and Chief of Lac La Ronge Indian Band Tammy Cook-Searson said the expansion supports SIGA’s core mandate of employment and economic development for First Nations. “This Phase 1 expansion is already helping us to further this mandate,” he said. “An additional 30 jobs have been created and filled as part of this phase, with more potential job creation once Phase 2 is completed.”

Dakota Dunes Casino now employs 373 people, with First Nations employees making up 73% of the workforce. 

SIGA President and CEO Zane Hansen said the organization is looking ahead to the next stages of development. “We are excited to provide an even more amazing experience for our casino guests, with an expanded High Limit Room table gaming area at the casino, and enhanced food and beverage areas planned in 2026," Hansen concluded.