The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the UAE’s gaming regulator, has issued a strong warning to residents about the risks associated with engaging with unlicensed lottery and gaming operators. The advisory aims to protect consumers from financial and legal vulnerabilities while reinforcing the country’s commitment to a safe and regulated gaming environment.

UAE residents warned about dangers of unlicensed gaming operators:

As Asia Gaming Brief reports in its December 9 statement, the GCGRA reiterated that only operators approved under its regulatory framework are authorized to conduct lottery and commercial gaming activities. This includes the UAE’s sole licensed lottery, operated by The Game, LLC under  The UAE Lottery. Two longstanding lotteries, Big Ticket and Dubai Duty Free, are also permitted to continue operations under GCGRA supervision. All other unlicensed or unauthorized lotteries have been ordered to cease activities.

The regulator highlighted several risks for individuals engaging with unlicensed operators. These include financial loss, exposure to fraud, the potential misuse of personal information, and heightened risks of malware or phishing attacks. Beyond these immediate dangers, consumers could find themselves involved in regulatory or criminal investigations, leading to reputational harm.

According to Inside Asian Gaming, Kevin Mullally, CEO of the GCGRA, emphasized the importance of adherence to the law, stating, “The GCGRA is committed to ensuring a safe and legal gaming environment in the UAE. Your adherence to the law not only safeguards your personal and financial security but also upholds the integrity of our community.”

Unlicensed operators lack oversight in critical areas such as advertising regulations, anti-money laundering compliance, financial reserves for prize payouts, and game fairness. Mullally further warned that even advertisers, payment processors, or service providers associated with these operators face potential sanctions and challenges to their business operations within the UAE.

Strengthening UAE’s regulated gaming framework:

Since its establishment in September 2023, the GCGRA has been instrumental in creating a regulated and socially responsible gaming environment. The authority’s framework ensures strict adherence to high standards by all approved operators and suppliers.

The regulator recently issued its first Commercial Gaming Facility Operator license to Wynn Resorts for the development of the $5.1 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island project in Ras Al Khaimah. Additionally, three industry suppliers—Aristocrat, Smartplay International, and PayBy Technology Projects—have been authorized to provide specialized services to approved operators.

The GCGRA’s mission extends beyond regulation; it seeks to unlock the economic potential of commercial gaming in a responsible manner. Its charter outlines a commitment to fostering a well-regulated environment where all stakeholders adhere to stringent guidelines.

The GCGRA’s advisory underscores its focus on consumer protection and community integrity. By warning residents of the dangers posed by unlicensed operators, the authority aims to enhance public awareness while deterring illegal activities.

Mullally urged consumers to remain informed and vigilant, saying, “If you choose to play, do so only with licensed operators.” He added that the GCGRA is dedicated to maintaining a gaming landscape that prioritizes safety, fairness, and compliance with UAE law.