The UAE launched the long-awaited General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in September 2023. The legal body will implement a regulatory framework on all aspects of gambling, including casinos and lottery.
GCGRA was established by Abu Dhabi’s Federal Law and will be the authoritative body responsible for regulating, licensing, and supervising all commercial gaming within the UAE.
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
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 $3.9 billion 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
Some laws in the UAE are based on the Quran, which states that Gambling is illegal. However, the establishment of GCGRA in 2023 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.