Regulation of gambling games: United Arab Emirates grants inaugural lottery permit
Following the establishment of a gambling regulatory body by UAE's government last year, they recently handed out the first gambling license.
Establishment of a Regulated Gambling Industry
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) introduced the first gambling license in a press release on July 28 [English link]. The recipient was The Game LLC, a company specializing in commercial gambling services, specifically the development of lottery products. Under the name UAE Lottery, The Game LLC will offer various lottery games to residents of the United Arab Emirates.
Not only lotteries, but other games addressing various interests and catering to various financial preferences of players are also planned. However, the specifics are not disclosed in the press release.
Jim Murren, chairman of the GCGRA, sees this moment as a significant achievement:
The launch of the UAE Lottery signifies the creation of a disciplined, elite regulatory framework for gambling activities in the UAE. It further demonstrates our dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable gambling environment.– Jim Murren, Chairman of the UAE Gambling Authority, GCGRA
As of now, it's unclear when the first gambling products will be available in the UAE.
Future of Casinos in the UAE Uncertain
For years, plans for casinos in the UAE have been under consideration. The establishment of the gambling authority and the issuance of the first gambling license could indicate that casinos might also receive a license. But at this time, it remains unconfirmed.
Regarding the MGM's planned casino at The Island Resort in Dubai, no decision has been made as of yet. MGM has yet to receive a casino license from the GCGRA and the authority has made no statements regarding this matter.
Similarly, the planned casino by Wynn Resorts, currently under construction in Ras Al Kaimah with an expected 2026 opening, has not yet secured a license for casino operations.
Unlawful Casino in the Dubai Ugandan Embassy
Before the creation of the gambling authority and the issuance of the first gambling license, gambling was strictly forbidden in the UAE. Allegedly, some found ways around this by getting creative.
It was revealed that an illegal casino was allegedly run from the Ugandan embassy in Dubai. According to reports, slot machines were brought to Dubai in diplomatic bags from Russia, ostensibly for temporary storage. The Ugandan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeje Odongo, 73, allegedly aimed to send the machines to Uganda to open a casino there.
However, the Ugandan intelligence service discovered that the slot machines were not only stored in the embassy but were also operational. They were said to be located in a separate room to which embassy staff did not have access. Regular visitors were reported entering and exiting the embassy to play on the machines. Both governments are currently investigating the matter.
World-Leading Consumer Protection
The introduction of gambling to the United Arab Emirates will be watched closely by the gambling authority. Kevin Mullally, CEO of the GCGRA, considers his agency's practices to offer the best consumer protection and regulatory oversight in the world.
Integrity, fairness, and transparency in gambling activities are the primary concerns of the GCGRA in the United Arab Emirates. This will allow players to monitor and manage their gambling activities.
Concurrently, the authority is utilizing new technology to create secure and entertaining games, driving gaming-oriented innovations. In conjunction with creating a comprehensive set of guidelines over the past few months, the GCGRA is working towards achieving their stated objectives.
Gambling without the GCGRA's approval remains illegal. Penalties are severe for those involved in the establishment, operation, or facilitation of illegal gambling. This includes participants engaged in gambling with unlicensed providers.
The press release from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) announced the issuance of the UAE's first gambling license to The Game LLC, which will operate under the name UAE Lottery. This news signifies a significant step towards establishing a regulated gambling industry in the UAE.
As stated by Jim Murren, chairman of the GCGRA, the launch of the UAE Lottery marks the creation of a disciplined and elite regulatory framework for gambling activities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming environment for residents.
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