The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is not usually the first market that comes to mind when discussing iGaming opportunities for affiliates. However, its young population is...
GCGRA names former Crown Resorts head as new CEO
The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has appointed the former head of Crown Resorts, Ciarán Carruthers, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Carruthers will replace Kevin Mullally, who was the first CEO of the UAE’s gambling regulator and stepped down in November 2025, citing family reasons. Since then, Chairman Jim Murren stepped into the role on an interim basis.
Murren commented on Carruthers’ appointment:
“Ciarán brings exactly the calibre of leadership this role demands. His track record of building trust with governments, regulators, and industry partners across multiple jurisdictions is exceptional. The future of gaming regulation in the UAE is in exceptional hands. Welcome, Ciarán.”
Carruthers has been working in various roles in global resorts and gaming for over 40 years, with his last position being the role of Crown Resorts CEO from September 2022 to November 2024. Before that, he served as the COO of Wynn Macau, as well as worked with Sands China, Asia Pacific Gaming, and Galaxy Casino.
Carruthers shared:
“The UAE is establishing itself as a global benchmark for modern and responsible gaming regulation, and I look forward to working closely with the team, licensees, and government partners to deliver on that ambition.”
The new CEO is expected to contribute to the regulator’s mission of expanding the UAE’s gaming sector and developing a modern framework for commercial gaming.
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