UAE Announces Rules for Legal Gambling and Casino Licenses – Here’s What They Include
The UAE has outlined specific rules for gambling, including “cooling off periods,” betting limits, and the necessity for a connection to a business within the UAE.
First Lottery License Approved
On Sunday, the UAE granted its first license for a lottery, signaling a significant step towards legalizing gambling in the Gulf region. The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) made public the regulations for casinos and gambling activities, marking a major milestone.
Gaming Regulatory Framework
The GCGRA website now provides comprehensive details about the future of gaming in the UAE, from issuing casino licenses to plans for slot machines and poker tables. The application form for a gaming license allows applicants to choose from all seven emirates, suggesting that gaming could extend across the entire country.
UAE Lottery Launch
“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,” said, chairman of the GCGRA.
Definition of 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 – i.e. placed as a bet – for the purpose of winning a sum of money or other valuable items.”
Types of Regulated Gaming
The GCGRA will regulate lotteries, internet gaming, sports wagering, and land-based gaming facilities. These facilities will include games like slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and craps. Internet gaming will cover a wide range of activities including bingo, casino games, eSports, fantasy games, and sports.
Approved License
The first license was awarded to The Game LLC for a lottery, operating under the banner of the ‘UAE Lottery.’ This is currently the only company with a license to offer gaming in the UAE, affecting other long-standing operators.
Future Casinos
While the framework for gaming operators is in place, no property in the UAE has yet been granted a gaming license. However, Wynn Al Marjan Island is expected to be the first, with its anticipated opening in 2027. Other potential sites include mega resorts like Atlantis Dubai and the upcoming MGM Dubai.
Regulatory Requirements
Businesses with a gaming license will be audited every two years by the GCGRA. Gaming operators must implement a Socially Responsible Gaming Program, including player education, responsible marketing, and employee training. They must also appoint a key person for maintaining these efforts and have a “qualifying domestic entity” in the UAE.
Market Potential
Analysts predict that casinos in the UAE could generate up to $8.5 billion in revenue, especially with the existing tourism infrastructure and luxury spending habits. The market is seen as one of the most promising opportunities in global gaming.
Player Regulations
Players must engage only with licensed operators, stay informed about the games they play, manage their time and money, and use available support services. There are also player management tools and deposit limits to encourage responsible gaming.
Cooling Off Periods
Operators must offer “cooling off periods” for online gaming, where players can request to restrict themselves from gaming platforms for a minimum of seventy-two hours.
This comprehensive regulatory framework aims to ensure a safe and controlled environment for gaming activities in the UAE, promoting responsible gambling while capitalizing on the economic potential of legalized gaming.
Reference: Skift
