GCGRA hunting season now open for illegal UAE operators

The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has begun chasing illegal operators out of the market with a warning to local residents.

The the regulator has warned consumers about the risks of gaming with illegal operators including financial losses due to fraud, personal data theft, malware infection, phishing attempts, general cybersecurity threats, as well as being subjected to a criminal investigation by the relevant authorities. 

Kevin Mullally, CEO of the GCGRA, commented: “The GCGRA is committed to ensuring a safe and legal gaming environment in the UAE.

“Stay vigilant and informed, to protect yourself from the risks associated with illegal gaming. Your adherence to the law not only safeguards your personal and financial security but also upholds the integrity of our community. If you choose to play, do so only with licensed operators.

“These unlicensed businesses have not had their technology or games independently evaluated for fairness or security. They are not required to act responsibly or incorporate basic consumer protection. They are not subject to advertising regulations and lack any oversight of their finances, including having reserves for prize payouts and complying with anti-money laundering laws. 

“Consumers are strongly advised to avoid unlicensed operators to protect themselves from adverse consequences.  Similarly, advertisers, payment processors, and other service providers that support these businesses risk sanctions and potential consequences affecting their ability to operate in the UAE.”

Mullally, MGM Resorts Associate, was announced as the GCGRA CEO last year ahead of the regulator’s launch, which paved the way for exploring commercial opportunities in gambling and combining the sector’s potential with the already enormous tourism industry of the Emirates.

Currently, the only license holder operating as the UAE Lottery is The Game LLC, which acts as the Gulf’s national lottery product and related services provider. Some preexisting lottery activities are also permitted under GCGRA jurisdiction, including the Big Ticket and Dubai Duty Free airport lotteries, which have been servicing clients for almost 30 years. 

Additionally, a commercial gaming operator license was recently granted to Wynn Resorts, which administers an integrated hotel resort in the UAE city of Ras Al Khaimah.