UAE awards first official lottery licence

The UAE's gaming authority awarded the licence to operate the first authorised lottery in the country on Sunday.

The licence was given to Abu Dhabi-based The Game LLC, a commercial gaming operator specialising in game development, lottery operations, and gaming-related content. Operating under the banner of the ‘UAE Lottery’, the firm will offer lottery games as well as other games designed to cater to players’ variety of interests and financial preferences.

The Game LLC is a subsidiary of Momentum – an entertainment group with a portfolio in lottery operations, commercial gaming development, game publishing, mobile gaming development and publishing, virtual reality experiences, iGaming and esports among others.

On September 3, 2023, the UAE established General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) as a federal authority to introduce a regulatory framework for commercial gaming, appointing industry veteran Jim Murren as chairman and Kevin Mullally, who has over 30 years of experience, as chief executive officer.

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The regulator said it has developed a framework aimed towards protecting consumers and the legitimate interests of all stakeholders.

Prior to the establishment of the regulatory body, multiple gaming and lottery companies were operating in the country. Some of them stopped operations at the beginning of the year.

Warning against illegal operation

GCGRA warned that it is illegal to engage, conduct, or facilitate commercial gaming activities in the UAE without its approval and those who violate the law will face severe penalties. It added that playing as a consumer via unlicensed operators is also illegal, according to the GCGRA framework.

“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 Jim Murren.

Kevin Mullally said the GCGRA’s regulatory framework ensures integrity, fairness, and transparency of commercial gaming activities in the UAE, which include lottery games.