The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) recently announced the appointment of Kevin Mullally as its first-ever CEO. Mullally has just stepped down from his role as CEO of the UAE General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), and swiftly took on his new position within a few weeks. Simply put, this veteran of the global gaming regulatory circle has just helped set up the regulatory framework in the UAE, and now he's about to serve as the "major steward" for the international organization. IAGR stated that the creation of the CEO position is to address the increasingly complex global regulatory agenda and the expanding needs of its members. Want to stay updated on the latest personnel movements in global gaming regulatory bodies? PASA's official website continues to track key position changes in the industry.
One, The Veteran Regulator's Path to Renewal
Kevin Mullally has over twenty years of experience in gaming regulation. Before joining IAGR, he had just completed his term at the UAE's GCGRA, where he led the agency through its startup phase, including establishing a regulatory framework and launching the UAE's first legal lottery business.
His earlier resume is equally impressive:
Gaming Laboratories International: Served for over 17 years in various senior positions
Missouri Gaming Commission: Former Executive Director and worked in its legal department
Missouri State Senate: Served as Chief of Staff to Senator Harry Wiggins
After leaving GCGRA, Mullally also founded his own consulting firm, Mullally Group, focusing on providing regulatory framework and governance practice support to governments and regulatory bodies.
Two, Why IAGR Established a CEO Position Now?
IAGR, as a membership-based organization composed of global gaming regulatory bodies, has traditionally relied on its members and board to drive its work. With its growing global influence and the complexity of regulatory issues, the association decided to establish a dedicated CEO position for the first time.
IAGR Chairman Ben Harden stated that Mullally's "depth of regulatory experience and global perspective" perfectly aligns with the association's mission. The newly established CEO will be responsible for:
Enhancing operational capabilities
Expanding member engagement
Establishing strategic partnerships
It is noteworthy that IAGR emphasized that the establishment of the CEO will not change its "member-led" governance structure, with strategic direction still set by the board.
Three, Continuous Progress in the UAE Gaming Market
Mullally's achievements at GCGRA continue to manifest. Following his leadership in launching the UAE's first legal lottery, the country's gaming market has recently seen new developments:
The first online gaming site: Play 971 launched in Abu Dhabi, operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC
Commercial gaming license: Wynn Al-Marjan Island project in Ras Al Khaimah obtained the first commercial gaming license in October 2024, expected to open in March 2027
Supplier certification: Sports betting and iGaming suppliers such as Sportradar, Xpoint, Hub88 have been certified in the market
According to UAE regulations, each Emirate (except those adhering to Islamic law) can issue one gaming license, with online casinos and sports betting within the scope of permission.
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