The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a new federal body to supervise and steer the sectors of commercial gaming and lotteries.

This newly established General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) symbolises a significant step towards implementing a regulatory framework for the latter industries.

This announcement comes shortly after the unveiling of a $3.9bn gaming resort initiative in Ras al Khaimah (RAK) that's in the process of obtaining its commercial gaming license. This news isn’t just an advancement for one of the world’s most expansive gaming establishments; it underscores the UAE's broader gaming aspirations, once believed to be concentrated solely in the RAK area.

The GCGRA's roster is packed with globally acknowledged experts who are deeply familiar with the gold standards of effective gaming industry regulation.

While the operational helm of GCGRA is in Abu Dhabi, the sovereigns of the seven Emirates retain the discretion to either permit or restrict commercial gaming in their territories. As stated by the Emirates News Agency, a foremost goal of the GCGRA is “to create a socially responsible and well-regulated gaming environment, ensuring that all participants adhere to strict guidelines and comply with the highest standards”.

Additionally, the Authority will harmonize and direct regulatory measures, handle national licensing, and support the sustainable economic expansion of the commercial gaming sector.

This article titled "UAE's Game-Changing Move: The Birth of a Federal Authority for Commercial Gaming" was originally published by WH Partners on 04 September 2023. It is being republished here with permission.