In a groundbreaking move, the UAE General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has granted gaming-related vendor licences to three companies, further solidifying its vision of a regulated, innovative, and responsible gaming industry. This brings the total number of licensed firms in the sector to five, as the country continues its measured steps into the gaming landscape.
The newly licensed firms—Aristocrat, Smartplay International, and UAE-based PayBy Technology Projects—are set to play pivotal roles in providing gaming equipment, lottery solutions, and financial services for licensed operators in the country.
Aristocrat: Leading the Charge with Cutting-Edge Gaming Solutions
International gaming technology leader Aristocrat became the first global firm to receive a vendor licence in the UAE. Known for its advanced electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and online gaming solutions, Aristocrat is poised to bring its expertise in land-based casino games, hardware, and systems to the UAE’s burgeoning gaming sector.
Hector Fernandez, CEO of Gaming for Aristocrat, expressed his excitement, saying:
“We look forward to … providing premium content for players in the UAE while simultaneously encouraging responsible gameplay.”
Aristocrat’s technology, which blends innovation with player-centric design, caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring engaging experiences for all.
Smartplay International: Powering Lottery Operations
Smartplay International, a global leader in lottery and gaming equipment, now holds a licence to provide its services to gaming operators in the UAE. The company designs and manufactures a range of products, including:
- Traditional lottery drawing equipment
- Digital random number generator systems
- Raffle machines
- Bingo blowers
- Lottery balls
Darrell Smith, Vice President of Sales at Smartplay, highlighted the company’s optimism about the UAE market:
“We see great opportunities here and look forward to working with new operators as they are approved by GCGRA.”
With a presence in 127 countries, Smartplay’s experience ensures the UAE will have access to globally renowned lottery systems.
PayBy Technology Projects: Revolutionizing Financial Services in Gaming
Homegrown fintech platform PayBy Technology Projects has been licensed to offer financial services tailored for the gaming industry. These include:
- Digital wallets
- Secure payment solutions
- Advanced fraud detection systems
PayBy’s offerings align with the GCGRA’s commitment to a secure and responsible gaming environment, ensuring both operators and players benefit from cutting-edge financial solutions. Their focus on innovation and safety adds a critical layer of trust to the UAE’s gaming ecosystem.
Strict Oversight: The Cornerstone of UAE’s Gaming Industry
The GCGRA’s licensing framework emphasizes responsibility and regulation. Only businesses and individuals holding valid licences are authorized to engage in gaming-related activities in the UAE. Any unlicensed operations or participation in unlicensed gaming activities is illegal, reflecting the UAE’s zero-tolerance approach to unauthorized gaming.
Currently, licences are issued in five categories:
- Lottery
- Land-based gaming facilities
- Gaming-related vendors
- Internet gaming
- Sports wagering
As of November 20, no licences have been granted for Internet gaming or sports wagering, showcasing the UAE’s methodical approach to expanding its gaming industry.
Wynn Resorts and The Game LLC: Pioneering the Landscape
In October 2023, the UAE issued its first land-based gaming facility licence to Wynn Resorts for its upcoming Al Marjan Island property in Ras Al Khaimah. The 15-year renewable licence marks a significant milestone for the country’s gaming ambitions.
Earlier, in July 2023, Abu Dhabi-based The Game LLC was granted the UAE’s first lottery licence. Specializing in game development and lottery operations, the company sets the stage for innovative lottery experiences in the region.
