Emirates Draw has unveiled its global expansion plans after ceasing operations in the UAE. This move follows recent regulatory changes from the UAE’s Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).

“Emirates Draw fully complies with the recent updates issued by the UAE’s Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). In light of the regulatory changes at the end of 2023, we suspended our operations in the UAE and redirected our efforts toward international markets, now serving participants in over 175 countries globally,” stated an Emirates Draw spokesperson.

The draw, operating under Tycheros, also manages a raffle called ‘Little Draw’, which offers participants three chances to win, as each ticket enters them into three separate draws, with daily prizes reaching up to $272,257.

The GCGRA, established under Federal Law, has implemented a new regulatory framework for lottery operations in the UAE. As part of this framework, The Game LLC, operating as The UAE Lottery, has been awarded a lottery license to conduct operations under its oversight. Additionally, certain pre-existing lottery activities are allowed to continue under strict regulation. Big Ticket and Dubai Duty Free, which have been operating airport-based lotteries for nearly three decades, are the only exceptions permitted to remain active.

In response to these regulatory shifts, Emirates Draw has evolved into a global entity. “We now operate solely in the digital realm, providing our services to international markets. However, UAE residents can no longer access the Emirates Draw website or participate in its draws, as the site is blocked within the country. Physical tickets are also no longer available in the UAE,” explained the Emirates Draw spokesperson.

“Participants living outside the UAE can still enjoy our draws and access our digital offerings wherever we are available,” the spokesperson added.

Khaleej Times has contacted Mahzooz for comment on the recent GCGRA announcement and its future plans in the UAE. A response from Mahzooz is pending.

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