Possible Growth Pathways For The UAE iGaming Market
What market trends reveal about the UAE’s iGaming futureThe UAE’s iGaming market is still in its early stages, but strong tourism, a large expat population, and evolving regulation point to major growth opportunities in the years ahead.
Findings from research by SCCG have outlined how the UAE gaming sector could grow. It includes various regulatory pathways, potential market size, and revenue ranges. According to the analysis, the UAE’s large expat population and expanding tourism industry are key factors driving the regulated market in the region. Experts believe everything is possible if the licensing body expands its reach as expected in the coming years.
The Current Market Status
Compared to most markets, only a few jurisdictions can match the UAE’s demographic profile. Of the 10.5 million residents, about 80% are foreign workers, so nearly the entire customer base will be from this group. The UAE population is also defined by high income. In 2024 alone, about 6,700 high-net-worth individuals moved to the country.
Apart from the locals, tourism is also expanding. The UAE used to attract between 15 and 16 million visitors annually, but this number is expected to rise by more than double by 2030. Its location also places it within an eight-hour flight of three-quarters of the world, enabling platforms to reach the global market.
Although Emirati players account for only 12% of the population, they are still part of the player base. This combination of workers, travelers, tourists, and the local population is the best foundation for the growing gaming market.
Growth Pathways for the UAE Market
As earlier stated, the UAE gaming market is expected to grow significantly by 2030. The findings from the SCCG research have outlined how the UAE gaming industry could grow.
One resort with cautious online rollout
This approach focuses on slow and methodical growth with fewer platforms. Currently, Wynn is the only UAE gaming resort with limited online availability. The annual GGR projection for the resort is about $1.33 billion, and legal online casinos could add $100 to $200 million to this amount.
When combined with other non-gaming income, like lotteries, the total will be $2 to $3 billion. Despite the high value, it’s still smaller than what is generated by Singapore’s two legal casinos, for example.
Proper iGaming regulation and multiple resorts
If the regulators want an accelerated approach, more establishments will be required. These resorts could be located in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah. With these land-based casinos open, GGR could reach $4 to $5 billion if they operate at Wynn’s predicted revenue.
Moreover, the country also embraces regulated online gaming, and so the revenue from iGaming alone could exceed $1 billion. The combined results are about $5 to $6 billion, which is almost on par with Singapore.
Full diversification
This is the most aggressive criterion, focusing on more resorts, better digital adoption, and multiple product offerings. For instance, platforms can get multi-level licenses that allow them to deliver both sports betting and casino games on their platforms.
Using this pathway, the iGaming industry could grow to $2 to $3 billion in revenue, while resorts would account for $6 to $8 billion in GGR. With a total of $8 to $10 billion per year, the UAE will be at the lower end of the global tier.
Charting the Path Forward
The UAE has recently entered the global gaming market, and it is expected to grow in the next few years. The GCGRA has chosen a controlled rollout, resulting in the establishment of legal casinos, lotteries, and digital platforms.Â
Projects like Wynn Al Marjan Island show great ambition, though they are limited to tourists. Still, players can access an online casino like Play971 (although limited) to play casino games and place sports wagers.
Suhair is a seasoned content creator with 20 years of experience, holding a Master's degree in Political Science. With expertise spanning iGaming, marketing, media, and government relations, she brings a unique perspective to online gaming. Suhair's global outlook enriches her writing because she speaks four languages and has lived in five countries. When not crafting compelling content, she enjoys traveling, immersing herself in diverse cultures, and practicing yoga. Her passion for learning and exploration makes her a captivating voice in the Middle East's online gaming scene.