- The Game LLC will operate under the banner of the UAE Lottery
- The country expected to allow casinos to operate in the coming years
The United Arab Emirates has awarded a lottery license for the first time, potentially taking another step toward legalizing casinos and other kinds of gaming in a market that’s being closely eyed by Las Vegas operators.
UAE Lottery games to operate within the GCGRA’s regulatory framework, including enhanced consumer protection and oversight.
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the federal entity overseeing commercial gaming activities in the United Arab Emirates, announced today the award of a license to operate the UAE’s first authorized lottery operation. The announcement marks a new milestone in the GCGRA’s endeavor to establish a well-regulated commercial gaming sector in the UAE, built on transparency, accountability, consumer protection, and responsible gaming practices.
The lottery license was awarded to The Game LLC, a commercial gaming operator specializing in game development, lottery operations, and gaming-related content. Operating under the ‘UAE Lottery’ banner, the GCGRA’s first licensee will offer a diverse range of lottery games and other games designed to cater to players’ interests and financial preferences.
Jim Murren, the Chairman of the GCGRA, said: “The launch of the UAE Lottery is a pivotal event that not only marks the establishment of a disciplined world-class regulatory framework for lottery activities but also underscores our commitment to nurturing a secure and enriched commercial gaming environment in the UAE.”
Kevin Mullally, CEO of the GCGRA, reaffirmed, “The GCGRA is steadfast in its commitment to global best practices in consumer protection and regulatory oversight. Our regulatory framework is designed to ensure the integrity, fairness, and transparency of commercial gaming activities in the UAE, which include lottery games. It also provides consumers with a comprehensive set of tools to monitor and manage their gaming activity. Additionally, we are leveraging new technologies to foster the creation of safe, entertaining games and drive consumer-focused innovation.”
The GCGRA has developed a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at protecting consumers and the legitimate interests of all stakeholders.
Engaging in, conducting, or facilitating commercial gaming activities within the UAE without approval from the GCGRA is illegal and exposes offenders to severe penalties. Playing as a consumer via unlicensed operators is also illegal, according to the GCGRA framework.
Gambling is prohibited under Islam and is illegal in the country. Legalizing it would be a step change for the UAE, where Islamic, or Shariah law, is the main basis for legislation.
It’s expected that the GCGRA will also regulate the introduction of ‘licensed gaming’ in the UAE. With the upcoming Wynn Marjan – slated to open in 2027 – set to feature a casino, this is, but the first step in changes soon in the field of ‘gaming’.
