Another step towards the UAE’s first casino was made on Sunday (July 28). The UAE’s gaming regulators granted the country’s first lottery licence and published its gambling regulations. It means the UAE is the first country in the region to legalise ‘commercial gaming’.

According to the GCGRA: “Commercial Gaming refers to any game of chance, or combination of chance and skill, where an amount of money, in cash or cash equivalents, is wagered – ie placed as a bet – for the purpose of winning a sum of money or other valuable items.”

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has launched its official website, which outlines the future of gaming in the UAE, including how to apply for casino licences and plans for slot machines and poker tables.

The application form for a gaming licence is open to all seven emirates, too, while the only casino plans in the public domain at the moment are for the Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, though it does not have a licence at the time of writing.

Jim Murren, chairman of the GCGRA, stated in a press release, “The launch of the UAE Lottery is a pivotal event that not only marks the establishment of a disciplined world-class regulatory framework for lottery activities but also underscores our commitment to nurturing a secure and enriched commercial gaming environment in the UAE.”

The GCGRA will regulate lotteries, internet gaming, sports wagering, and land-based gaming facilities, which will include games such as slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat and craps

The website says: Responsible Gaming (RG) is a term that refers to the practice of commercial gaming in a way that safeguards consumers and minimises the potential adverse consequences of excessive gaming for individuals and society.

Commercial Gaming should always be:

  • Entertaining:
    Gaming should be a form of entertainment and leisure activity, not a means to generate income or make money.
  • Safe and fair:
    Gaming should be conducted in a safe and fair environment. It should not cause harm to any individuals or society.
  • Socially responsible:
    Ensuring minors and vulnerable groups are not exposed to commercial gaming activities and any gaming-related harm or exploitation.
  • Caring and supportive:
    The industry will offer support to both individuals and local organisations and promote responsible gaming practices.

The Responsible Gaming framework includes player education, responsible marketing, employee training, and evaluation plans to measure the effectiveness of these initiatives. Each licensed business must appoint a key person responsible for maintaining these efforts.

Kevin Mullally, CEO of the GCGRA, reaffirmed “The GCGRA is steadfast in its commitment to global best practices in consumer protection and regulatory oversight. Our regulatory framework is designed to ensure the integrity, fairness, and transparency of commercial gaming activities in the UAE, which include lottery games.

The GCGRA also set several rules for players, which are:

  • 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.

Operators will offer deposit limits on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis, specifying the maximum amount a player can deposit within a given period.

“Cooling off periods” will also be implemented for online gaming, allowing players to restrict access to gaming platforms for a minimum of 72 hours if requested.

Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah

Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah