The United Arab Emirates’ commercial gaming industry continues to gather pace as regulators approve more suppliers and operators to support the region’s fastest-growing new industry.
Since establishing the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in 2023, the UAE has adopted a phased approach that prioritises regulation, responsible gaming and carefully controlled market growth over rapid expansion.
That strategy is becoming increasingly visible through the steady stream of new licenses issued across lottery technology, casino equipment, gaming systems and sports betting.
Many of the operators of the sites featured on comparison website haztayeb-uae.com/en already use the companies who have been awarded licenses by the GCGRA.
The GCGRA has focused on building the industry’s foundations by approving specialist suppliers capable of supporting secure and compliant gaming operations.
The latest announcements suggest the regulator is assembling an ecosystem before the anticipated opening of the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort in Ras Al Khaimah next year.
Scientific Games Strengthens the UAE’s Gaming Infrastructure
One of the most significant licensing announcements came when Scientific Games received a Gaming-Related Vendor licence from the GCGRA.
The approval authorises the global company to supply lottery products, technology and services within the UAE.
Scientific Games is one of the world’s largest lottery technology providers, working with more than 150 lotteries across 50 countries.
Its portfolio includes retail lottery systems, digital lottery platforms, instant games, analytics and operational services.
Company president of international business Michael Conforti described the licence as an important milestone and said the business looked forward to using its decades of lottery expertise to support responsible lottery programmes in the UAE.
The approval also reinforces the regulator’s intention to establish lottery operations using experienced international suppliers with proven compliance records.
Lottery is one of several commercial gaming verticals overseen by the GCGRA, alongside internet gaming, sports wagering and land-based gaming facilities.
Vendor Register Continues to Expand
The GCGRA has steadily expanded its gaming-related vendor licensee register by adding specialist companies from different parts of the gaming supply chain.
UK-based Cammegh Limited is one of the latest additions. The company is internationally recognised for manufacturing precision roulette wheels, electronic roulette displays and table gaming technology used by casinos worldwide.
Cammegh sales director Andrew Cammegh described the licence as an exciting opportunity to participate in what he called a ‘dynamic and well-regulated gaming market’.
Its inclusion is particularly notable given the increasing attention surrounding future land-based casino operations within the UAE.
Meanwhile, Malaysian gaming supplier RGB International has also confirmed that it has secured approval from the regulator.
The company stated that it had received authorisation to supply electronic gaming machines together with maintenance and technical support services.
RGB executive director Ganaser Kaliappen confirmed the approval during the company’s latest earnings briefing, explaining that the business had completed the licensing process after submitting its application approximately a year earlier.
The approval places RGB among an expanding group of international suppliers preparing for future opportunities as integrated resorts begin operating in the UAE.
Other companies already listed on the GCGRA’s public register include GeoComply, Fennica Gaming, EQL Games and Pollard Banknote, highlighting the regulator’s emphasis on bringing experienced international technology providers into the market.
Play971 increases consumer engagement
While infrastructure suppliers continue to receive licenses, the consumer-facing side of the market is also evolving.
Play971 has become one of the most visible licensed betting brands operating under the UAE’s new regulatory framework.
Operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, a subsidiary of Momentum, the platform began operating after receiving approval from the GCGRA and has since expanded its marketing activities.
One of its biggest announcements came with the appointment of former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee as its first brand ambassador.
Lee has lived in the UAE since retiring from international cricket, making him a familiar figure within the country’s sporting community.
Play971 said his reputation for ‘professionalism, integrity and sporting excellence’ made him an ideal representative as the company continues to build its presence.
Commercial director for iGaming Philippa Bowland highlighted his connection with the UAE and its diverse sporting culture, while the former cricketer described the country as a place where ‘innovation and ambition continue to shape new opportunities’.
The appointment also reflects Play971’s efforts to appeal to the UAE’s sizeable cricket audience while expanding its football offering ahead of major international tournaments.
Cricket remains one of the country’s most popular sports, supported by a large South Asian population and high-profile competitions such as the International League T20.
Football betting is also expected to become an increasingly important part of the regulated market as international events continue to attract significant interest.
