The appointment of a lottery operator and the publication of lottery rules is a step toward casinos
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a significant step towards the introduction of casinos with the recent passage of new lottery rules. The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has published its casino and gaming licensing rules, marking a historic shift in the nation’s approach to gaming and casinos.
The move is seen as a pivotal event that not only establishes a disciplined world-class regulatory framework for lottery activities but also underscores the UAE’s commitment to nurturing a secure and enriched commercial gaming environment. Jim Murren, chairman of the GCGRA, emphasized the importance of this development, stating that the launch of the UAE Lottery is a key milestone in the establishment of a regulated gaming landscape within the country.
Commercial gaming, as defined by the GCGRA, encompasses any game of chance, or combination of chance and skill, where money or equivalent is wagered with the intention of winning money or other valuable items. This broad definition includes lotteries, internet gaming, sports wagering, and land-based gaming facilities, which will feature games such as slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and craps.
The first lottery license has been awarded to The Game, a commercial gaming operator specializing in game development and lottery operations. This development is part of a larger vision to position the UAE as a premier destination for gaming, potentially rivaling established gaming hubs like Las Vegas and Singapore.
The GCGRA’s official website now provides detailed information on the future of gaming in the UAE, including the issuance of casino licenses and plans for slot machines and poker tables. The application process for a gaming license is open to all seven emirates, suggesting that gaming could potentially extend across the entire UAE.
To ensure compliance and responsible gaming, businesses with a gaming license will be subject to audits every two years by the GCGRA. Additionally, the GCGRA mandates that gaming operators implement a “Socially Responsible Gaming Program” in line with its Responsible Gaming (RG) Framework. This program includes player education, responsible marketing, employee training, and evaluation plans to measure the effectiveness of these initiatives.
While the licensing framework for gaming operators is now operational, no property has yet been publicly granted a gaming license. However, the prospects for casinos in the UAE are optimistic, with industry investors generally positive about the future of the UAE’s casino industry.
