Emirates Draw has expressed its interest in obtaining a 'second lottery licence' and exploring 'other gaming opportunities', according to a statement released on Thursday. This development follows the recent announcement by the UAE that The Game LLC will be the nation's first licensed lottery operator.
'We appreciate and support the UAE government's efforts to set up a regulated gaming industry that safeguards consumers and promotes fairness and transparency,' Emirates Draw stated. As declared by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) on Sunday, The Game LLC, based in Abu Dhabi, is presently the sole authorized lottery operator in the UAE, operating under the name 'UAE Lottery'. The specific games it will offer remain undisclosed.
'Over nearly three years, we have distributed over $50 million in prizes to close to one million participants, while also contributing to community projects and environmental causes. Our dedication to creating a significant impact drives our daily efforts,' Emirates Draw commented. Raffle draw operators such as Emirates Draw and Mahzooz suspended their operations in the UAE starting January 1, 2024, in adherence to directives from the GCGRA. Both companies had previously applied for the national lottery licence.
Despite not securing the licence, Mahzooz recently announced plans for 'exciting new ventures', details of which will be disclosed 'soon'. Established last year, the GCGRA is an autonomous executive entity within the UAE federal government responsible for regulating, licensing, and overseeing all commercial gaming activities and facilities in the UAE. Commercial gaming includes any activity involving chance or a combination of chance and skill where money, in cash or equivalents, is bet to win monetary or other valuable prizes. Unlicensed commercial gaming is illegal in the UAE for both operators and players, with the GCGRA issuing warnings of 'severe penalties' for non-compliance.
