The United Arab Emirates Commercial Gambling Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) announced the launch of a new online gambling regulatory framework, planning to allow each of the seven emirates to issue one online gambling operation license, marking a key step in the country's path to gambling legalization. The new system refers to the land-based casino regulatory model, with only Wynn Group currently holding a land-based casino license and is building an integrated resort. GCGRA has issued several B2B supplier licenses and expects the first batch of online operation licenses to be announced in the coming months. This move could reshape the gambling market landscape in the Middle East and promote the UAE as a global center for gambling technology innovation.
Regulatory Framework and Licensing System
The United Arab Emirates Commercial Gambling Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) is developing an online gambling regulatory framework, planning to allow each emirate to issue a B2C online gambling operation license upon local government approval. The system draws on the experience of land-based casino regulation, with the nation currently issuing only one land-based casino license to Wynn Group, which is investing $5 billion in building a casino-inclusive integrated resort at Ras Al Khaimah. Established in 2023, GCGRA is the sole national gambling regulatory body responsible for licensing and supervising all national gambling and lottery operations.
Pilot Scope and Industry Foundation
The UAE maintains a cautious attitude towards the gambling industry, expecting only two to three emirates to participate in the online gambling pilot, without fully opening the market. GCGRA has already issued several B2B supplier licenses, covering technology platforms, sports data, and risk control services. Licensed companies include Hub 88 Holdings technology company and Sportradar AG, a giant in sports data, whose license is already effective and can provide compliant services in the UAE. These measures have built the necessary technical and regulatory foundation for the online gambling ecosystem.
Development Goals and Global Impact
The CEO of GCGRA stated at a recent international conference that the UAE aims to become a global leader in gambling technology and innovation, emphasizing that regulation should promote innovation rather than restrict it. The new policy may break the traditional gambling prohibition pattern in the Middle East, setting a new benchmark for the global iGaming industry that combines compliance and innovation. The first batch of online operation licenses is expected to be announced in the coming months, and the UAE may take this opportunity to develop into a new center for global legal online gambling.
