UAE Moves Closer to Casino Launch as New Lottery Rolls Out

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has made its website public, detailing the structure of the country's gaming landscape. The new framework covers licensing for casinos, lotteries, internet gaming, and sports betting, extending across all seven emirates — not just Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.

Jim Murren, Chairman of the GCGRA, described the milestone as a foundation for a “regulated and secure gaming environment.” The authority defines commercial gaming broadly, including lotteries, internet games, sports betting, and traditional casino activities such as:

• Slot machines

• Poker and table games like blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and craps

• Live dealer and electronic gaming terminals

The first license was awarded to The Game LLC, officially launching the UAE Lottery and temporarily eclipsing existing operators such as Mahzooz and Big Ticket.

Although no physical casino licenses have been issued yet, several resorts are in strong contention, with:

• Wynn Al Marjan Island leading the race ahead of its 2027 opening,

• Atlantis Dubai and MGM Dubai considered potential candidates.

The GCGRA’s responsible gaming strategy includes:

• Mandatory player protection and education programs

• Strict marketing and advertising limitations

• Designation of a local compliance officer and regular auditing

Economic analysts at CBRE project that UAE casinos could generate up to $8.5 billion annually, with Wynn Resorts eyeing multiple expansion opportunities and envisioning an “Arabian Strip” akin to Las Vegas.

As the regulatory framework takes shape and more licenses are awarded, the UAE is positioning itself as a major global gaming hub, reshaping its economy, tourism sector, and entertainment landscape.