The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has issued gaming-related vendor licences to three companies, expanding the nation’s burgeoning gaming sector.
Aristocrat, Smartplay International, and PayBy Technology Projects now have the authorisation to provide specialised services to approved gaming operators in the country.
These licences align with the UAE’s strategy to establish a well-regulated gaming industry. The GCGRA, formed in 2022, has so far licensed five companies, including major international and domestic players.
Global supplier secures first licence
Aristocrat, a global leader in gaming solutions, became the first international supplier to receive a licence. The company’s offerings include land-based electronic gaming machines (EGMs), online games, and technology solutions tailored for diverse player preferences.
“We are honoured to be the first large, international technology provider to serve the UAE market,” said Hector Fernandez, CEO of Gaming at Aristocrat. “We look forward to providing premium content for players while encouraging responsible gameplay.”
The company’s comprehensive portfolio ranges from casino systems to online mobile gaming platforms, supporting its commitment to innovation and user satisfaction.
Lottery equipment services
Smartplay International, a leading supplier of lottery equipment, has been licensed to provide lottery drawing machines, digital number generators, and related services in the UAE. The company has a global presence, working with lottery operators in 127 countries.
Darrell Smith, Smartplay’s Vice President of Sales, expressed optimism about the UAE market. “We see great opportunities in the country and look forward to working with new operators as they are approved by GCGRA.”
Smartplay’s advanced technology is expected to enhance lottery operations in the UAE, following the licensing of The Game LLC earlier this year as the nation’s first lottery operator.
Financial services in Gaming
UAE-based fintech platform PayBy Technology Projects also secured a vendor licence, marking a milestone for the integration of financial technology in gaming. PayBy’s services include secure payments, digital wallets, and fraud detection systems, essential for a safe gaming environment.
“This licence aligns with the GCGRA’s vision of creating a secure and innovative gaming environment that prioritises player safety,” said a PayBy representative. The company’s digital solutions will complement the UAE’s efforts to maintain robust oversight in the gaming sector.
Regulatory framework
The GCGRA categorises licences under five domains: lottery, land-based gaming facilities, gaming-related vendors, Internet gaming, and sports wagering. Thus far, licences have been granted for lottery operations and gaming-related services, while categories like Internet gaming and sports wagering remain unlicensed.
In October, Wynn Resorts became the first company to obtain a land-based gaming facility licence for its $5.1 billion casino project in Ras Al Khaimah. The 15-year licence underscores the UAE’s ambition to diversify its entertainment offerings.
UAE’s strict compliance measures
Unlicensed gaming remains illegal in the UAE for operators and players. The GCGRA enforces strict regulations to ensure transparency, player safety, and responsible practices in the gaming sector. Only entities holding valid licences are authorised to operate.