Casino Del Sol is preparing to unveil its latest venture, Vahi Taaʼam, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s third gaming establishment, which is slated for a grand opening on November 15, 2026. This new property will be located at 1055 W. Grant Road, conveniently situated near Interstate 10 in Tucson, Arizona.
Spanning 163,000 square feet, Vahi Taaʼam will operate under the Casino Del Sol brand, which is owned and managed by the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. This development is part of the tribe's ongoing commitment to economic self-sufficiency, cultural preservation, and community enhancement in Southern Arizona.
The name Vahi Taaʼam, pronounced vah-hee tah-ahm, translates to “Three Suns” in the Yoeme language, reflecting the tribe's cultural heritage. It symbolizes hope and a promising future for both the community and its visitors.
Julian Hernandez, Chairman of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “Every design choice, every partnership, every hire – all of it flows from the same source: our culture, our people, and our responsibility to the Tucson community we have called home for generations.” He expressed eagerness for the opening day, saying, “November 15 cannot come soon enough.”
The property will feature a striking 26-foot copper dome visible from Interstate 10, designed to evoke the image of the sun rising over the desert and to pay homage to Arizona’s copper mining history. This dome will serve as a key architectural element of the venue.
Inside, guests will experience a beautifully designed space with vaulted domed ceilings, patterned terrazzo tiles, wooden accents, archways, and rustic ironwork. A stunning 24,000-square-foot mural by Tucson artist Joe Pagac will adorn the interior dome ceiling, depicting the Arizona desert sky and featuring programmable lighting that transitions from bright midday tones to the warm hues of a Sonoran sunset.
Casino Del Sol aims for the design to resonate with the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the rich heritage of the Pascua Yaqui people. Additionally, the project is anticipated to generate approximately 500 new jobs for the local community.
Amanda Sampson Lomayesva, Interim CEO of Casino Del Sol, remarked, “Casino Del Sol, Vahi Taaʼam is more than a new property – it is a declaration of what the Pascua Yaqui Tribe stands for: a future as bright as the three suns its name evokes.” She expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming opening and the opportunity to welcome nearly 500 employees to this new establishment.