The UAE is entering a new era in the gaming industry with the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) streamlining lottery operations in the country. Ahead of the inaugural draw of The UAE Lottery, set for Saturday, December 14, the GCGRA has authorized only three operators: The UAE Lottery, Big Ticket, and Dubai Duty-Free.
At the forefront is The UAE Lottery, managed by The Game LLC, which secured the nation’s sole lottery license. With a staggering Dhs100 million jackpot for its first draw, the lottery has already generated excitement among residents.
The Countdown Has Begun!
Tickets for the draw, priced at Dhs50, are available at theuaelottery.ae. Participants choose six numbers (1–31) and a single number (1–12), with full matches winning the jackpot. Secondary prizes cater to partial matches, and digital scratch cards priced between Dhs5 and Dhs50 offer instant wins of up to Dhs1 million.
Big Ticket and Dubai Duty-Free retain their operations under strict oversight of the relevant regulators in the United Arab Emirates, while unlicensed lotteries such as Mahzooz and Emirates Draw have been shut down. Both operators are pivoting to new gaming verticals in compliance with GCGRA directives.
GCGRA Sets Regulatory Standards for Responsible Gaming
The GCGRA’s consolidation of lottery operations aligns with its broader goal of promoting safe and transparent gaming experiences. This includes a firm stance against unlicensed operators to protect consumers from fraud, malware, and misuse of personal data.
Consumers are strongly advised to avoid unlicensed operators to protect themselves from adverse consequences. Unlicensed businesses lack independent evaluations for fairness, advertising regulation, and financial oversight, including reserves for prize payouts.
In addition to safeguarding players, the GCGRA cautioned advertisers, payment solution providers, and other entities against partnering with unlicensed operators, warning of potential sanctions. Adhering to law not only safeguards each player’s personal and financial security but also upholds the integrity of the community.
Unlicensed Operators Face Shutdown
The federal regulator has been clear: only three operators—The UAE Lottery, Big Ticket, and Dubai Duty-Free—are permitted to operate under the new framework. All other pre-existing lotteries have been ordered to cease operations.
Mahzooz and Emirates Draw, previously prominent in the UAE, ceased their activities on January 1, 2024, following GCGRA directives. Both companies are now focusing on new gaming verticals while planning to apply for licenses in other areas.
By streamlining the lottery landscape, the GCGRA aims to enhance consumer trust and ensure financial sustainability for regulated operators. The authority’s decision underscores its commitment to fostering a responsible gaming environment while aligning with the UAE’s broader regulatory goals.
Source:
“UAE Approves Three Lottery Operators, Shuts Down Others”, uaemoments.com, December 10, 2024.