In September 2023, the United Arab Emirates has set up a federal entity to regulate gaming and hired veterans of the U.S. gambling industry to lead it.
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). is responsible for regulating and overseeing commercial gaming in the United Arab Emirates, which aims to drive sustainable growth by cultivating world-class commercial gaming operations and implementing efficient regulation, grounded in the principles of integrity, innovation, and responsible practices.
First License Issued by GCGRA
In July 2024, GCGRA licensed the very first commercial gaming, where UAE’s first authorized lottery was licensed to The GAME LLC. The latter will offer a range of lottery games in the UAE. The company is a subsidiary of an Abu Dhabi-based company, Momentum. that specializes in mobile games, virtual reality and iGaming in general.
GCGRA’s chief executive, Kebil Mullaly, had marked this event as “pivotal in establishing a world-class regulatory framework” and “the commitment to nurturing a secure commercial gaming environment within the UAE.”
Wynn Resort’s $3.9 Billion resort
Years-long speculation that the UAE would allow gambling – illegal across the conservative Gulf region – was put to rest when it was announced that Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE’s seven emirates, was set to open a roughly $3.9 billion Wynn Resort (WYNN.O), opens new tab featuring a casino.
Wynn Resorts is leading the way in legally introducing casino play in the UAE. Wynn’s integrated resorts are planned on one of Ras Al Khaimah’s man-made islands close to Dubai – Marjan Island. Its resort will include a land-based casino, accommodation, and luxury facilities. The project is planned to be finalized by 2027 as the latest target date.
In September 2024, American company MGM Resorts also applied for a casino license in Abu Dhabi, again indicating the UAE will extend its casino operations.
In the process
Gambling is banned in the United Arab Emirates, it’s considered a sin from a religious point of view, and an offence whether you play at a casino or among friends. According to the Penal Code, those who break the law should expect a substantial fine or even detention for up to two years.
However, the establishment of GCGRA clearly indicates the creation of a framework for making gambling legal within the UAE.
Steps to establish the actual legal framework are an ongoing discussion, as the GCGRA authority is still devising definite criteria for licensing, responsible gambling, and penalties. For this reason, there is no clear suggestion as to when the first official casino licensing will happen—for both land-based and online casinos.
What is for sure is that billions are being invested in establishing land-based casino resorts, and the official legal framework is clearly a definite step that shows commitment to integrating gambling within the Emirati legal framework.
Can you still play at an online casino in the UAE?
Yes. As long as they are properly licensed by internationally acclaimed authoritative bodies, you can safely play online casinos within the UAE – with many online casinos that are now even catering specific bonuses and offers for their Emiratipkayers.
We have a list of trusted casinos we review for our UAE players All of these are safe options that also offer some of the best perks for our players.
With over four years of experience in the online casino industry, Lara has reviewed numerous online casinos and put together numerous casino guides. Her focus is directed on what matters most to players, particularly those in the UAE. Her approach is built on attention to detail and a commitment to transparency and player satisfaction, ensuring that our readers have trustworthy insights to guide their choices.