UAE’s first lottery launches with Dh100M grand prize
The Game LLC, Abu Dhabi's first and only licensed lottery operator, has launched the UAE Lottery.Licensed by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in...
The revolution of gaming in the United Arab Emirates
Recent legislative changes and the awarding of licenses to significant foreign operators reflect the United Arab Emirates’ determination to become a major force in the world gambling market, demonstrating the country’s impressive achievement in transforming its gaming sector.
In September 2023, the UAE announced the establishment of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), signifying its intention to legalize gaming within its boundaries, marking a turning point.
Game LLC
This commercial gaming company, Game LLC, specialising in game development, lottery operations, and gaming-related content, became the first registered lottery operator in the UAW in July 2024.
Wynn Resorts
In October 2024, Wynn Resorts became the first company to secure a commercial gaming operator license in the UAE. The Wynn Al Marjan Island, an opulent integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah, is presently under construction by the Las Vegas-based hospitality giant and is expected to open in the first quarter of 2027.
Venera Palii said:
“The positive trajectory of high-profile projects like Wynn Al Marjan Island demonstrates investor confidence in the UAE’s gaming sector.”
Aristocrat
October 2024 was significant not only for Wynn Resorts but also for Australian gaming giant Aristocrat as it secured the first supplier license from the GCGRA.
With this license, Aristocrat can now provide licensed casino websites and operators in the United Arab Emirates with both online gaming solutions and land-based electronic gaming machines.
Hector Fernandez, CEO of Aristocrat, commented:
“We are honoured to be the first large, international technology provider to be awarded a gaming-related vendor license to serve the UAE market. Our commitment to delivering premium gaming content while promoting responsible play aligns perfectly with the GCGRA’s vision for a regulated gaming environment.”
Smartplay International
Smartplay also has something to celebrate about October 2024. The GCGRA granted a supplier license to Smartplay International, a well-known New Jersey-based provider of gaming and lottery equipment. With the second supplier license in the United Arab Emirates, Smartplay is now able to offer advanced gaming and lottery systems to authorised operators across the area.
Darrell Smith, Vice President of Sales at Smartplay International, commented:
“We’re honoured to have received this vendor license, which enables us to bring our innovative solutions to the UAE. We see great opportunities in this burgeoning market and are eager to collaborate with new gaming operators approved by the GCGRA.”
The United Arab Emirates is positioned to take the crown and lead the gaming industry.
Wynn Al Marjan to welcome its guests in Q1 2027
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