Play971 has launched in the UAE as the country’s first licensed iGaming platform

Earlier reports suggested that Play971.ae was close to making history in the UAE gaming sector. That milestone has now been reached.

Play971 went live on 15 December, representing the initial occasion when a government-sanctioned digital site in the UAE has provided genuine-cash casino-type entertainment together with athletic betting. The offering is currently active and available to eligible individuals inside the nation.

Full Regulatory Approval Confirmed

Play971 has launched in the UAE marketplace with official authorization from the nation's central gambling regulator, which oversees and manages every business betting operation across the country. The site is formally listed as authorized to deliver both digital entertainment options and actual-funds athletic betting to customers within the Emirates.

The initiative is managed by Coin Technology Projects LLC, a domestic company unit based in Abu Dhabi. Its main activities are conducted from Twofour54 Yas Creative Hub — a government-backed creative district emphasizing media content and tech innovations.

From Licensing to Public Launch

Official documents reveal that GCGRA provided authorization to Play971 on 28 November, prior to the site's official rollout. Prior to the countrywide introduction, entry seems to have been limited, suggesting a gradual or managed deployment in specific regions of the UAE.

This authorization represents the 19th permit distributed by GCGRA since the organization was formed in September 2023, after approvals given to the UAE lottery provider, the Wynn Al Marjan Island development, and various gambling-sector suppliers.

What This Means for the UAE Market

Play971’s launch signifies the first actual application of controlled digital entertainment and athletic betting in the UAE. Although there was no official rollout statement, the site is presently taking wagers on athletic competitions and casino-type entertainment beneath immediate oversight from regulators.

According to GCGRA guidelines, online entertainment includes a broad spectrum of options, such as digital casino offerings, electronic sports wagering, daily fantasy contests, ability-oriented activities, player-versus-player modes, and standard athletic betting.

Player Requirements and Geographic Controls

Entry to Play971 is restricted to individuals aged 21 and older who are located within the UAE. The site applies rigorous location restrictions in certain zones and clearly prohibits the employment of VPNs or position-concealing software. Any effort to circumvent these measures could result in withheld winnings.

Engagement is permitted for UAE locals and tourists, whereas individuals from restricted or elevated-risk countries are barred. Further restrictions might be relevant to UAE citizens based on individual emirate laws.