The GCGRA, or General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority of the United Arab Emirates, has launched its website. It includes details on the future regulation of gaming in the UAE. The site is outlining plans to issue casino licenses for venues with slot machines and poker tables. This is a move that will make the UAE the first Arab country with casino gambling.
Licenses for gaming operators running internet gaming platforms, sports wagering, and land-based gaming facilities will be issues by the regulator. Licenses will also be issued for gaming-related vendors, suppliers of gaming equipment, and related goods and services. Additionally, licenses will be granted to key persons and gaming employees. Potential applicants to choose from all seven emirates will be allowed by the intake form for gaming application. This suggests that gambling may not be confined only to Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai at least in the longer term.
A list of Responsible Gaming Minimum Requirements will also be provided by the GCGRA website. Gaming operators must implement a Socially Responsible Gaming Programme. This programme will cover player education, responsible marketing, employee training, and evaluation plans. They must also have a designated member of staff to oversee the programme.
Operators must offer options to set daily, weekly, and monthly deposit limits. Players will also be allowed to restrict access to gaming platforms for at least 72 hours through cooling-off periods.
The regulatory framework clarifies that engaging with unlicensed operators as for unlicensed gambling. This includes lottery operators being illegal for players and could result in severe penalties. Players will be able to self-exclude from gambling. They are also encouraged to use tools provided by operators and the GCGRA to set limits on their gaming activities.
The GCGRA must also be notified by interested parties of their intention to apply for a gambling license by first completing the Intake Form on the website of the regulator.
