The United Arab Emirates has approved the licence for its first authorised lottery and published a raft of regulations for commercial gaming in the country.

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority has launched its official website outlining the future of gaming in the UAE.

On Sunday July 28, the regulator granted the country’s first lottery licence and published regulations for gaming licences.

The lottery itself is seen as a “pivotal step” for the UAE’s commercial gaming sector as it has established a framework for safe, secure and fair gaming.

Details of the lottery game itself have not yet been revealed but confirmation from the authority is a new step for the future of the industry.

The GCGRA clarifies that commercial gaming is any game of chance, or combination of chance and skill where an amount of money is wagered for the purpose of winning a sum of money or other valuable items.

This means that any lotteries, internet gaming, sports wagers, and land-based gaming facilities where commercial gaming is hosted will all fall under the remit of the regulator.

Where will the first UAE casino be?

CBRE Capital Advisors projects that the UAE could eventually rival the likes of Las Vegas and Singapore as a hub for gaming.

We can expect the first casino resort to open in Ras Al Khaimah at the Dhs14 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island.

Work on a 300-metre-tall tower is expected to be finished by the end of 2025 while the final resort is likely to open in early 2027.

However, at this point, no casino licences have yet been granted to any project.

Despite plans for big Las Vegas brands such as the MGM, Bellagio and Aria all in the pipeline for The Island Dubai project, there has been no suggestion that casinos will arrive with them.

The Island Dubai was first announced in 2017 and will be off the coast of Umm Suqeim. The project remains some way off completion as a Dhs4.4 billion contract for its construction was only awarded last year.

What are the rules for gaming in the UAE?

Players will need to follow a set of rules outlined by the GCGRA if they are participating. These rules are as follows:

• Playing with licensed operators only: Engaging with unlicensed operators, including lottery operators, is illegal and may result in severe penalties.
• Staying informed: Players should understand the games they play, including the odds and risks involved.
• Managing time and money: Players are encouraged to use tools provided by operators and the GCGRA to set limits on their gaming activities.
• Utilising available support: Support services are available for players facing difficulties with their gaming behaviour.
• Voluntary self-exclusion: Players can opt for self-exclusion programs to take breaks from gaming activities.

What is responsible gaming in the UAE?

Potential players will be given support by the GCGRA to make sure that gamers manage their money and time properly with limits and self-exclusion outlined in the rules.

The authority has outlined that commercial gaming should follow a set of principles to look after people who choose to game.

The website for the GCGRA says that commercial gaming should always be:

• Entertaining: It should not be seen as a means to generate income or make money
• Safe and fair: It should not cause harm to any individuals or society
• Socially responsible: Vulnerable groups and minors should not be exposed to gaming-related harm or exploitation
• Caring and supportive: Support will be given to individuals and local organisations to promote responsible gaming

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