UAE Forms Gaming Authority As Casinos Thrive In The Gulf

In a strategic move that reflects the United Arab Emirates (UAE) commitment to the global sports economy, the country is poised to establish a federal gaming regulatory body, signalling the potential emergence of legal sports betting and gambling on its horizon.

Former CEO and chairman of MGM Resorts International, Jim Murren, has been appointed as the board of directors chairman for the UAE’s pioneering General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority. According to the country’s press agency, this authority is set to lay the groundwork for a framework encompassing “national lottery and commercial gaming.” Accompanying Murren in this pivotal role is Kevin Mullally, the former executive director of the Missouri Gaming Commission, who takes on the mantle of CEO.

The UAE’s progressive strides towards embracing the gaming industry could position it as the trailblazer among Gulf states, potentially becoming the first to legalize casinos, a historical deviation from the region’s long-standing prohibition on gambling rooted in Islamic tradition. The UAE’s exploration of the casino industry has attracted global gaming leaders, suggesting the potential rise of the region’s best online casinos for Arabic players.

Notably, global industry giant Wynn Resorts has already disclosed plans to invest $3.9 billion in developing a gaming resort within the UAE. Bloomberg has ventured to suggest that the country stands to reap annual gaming revenues of approximately $6.6 billion.

A glimpse into the GCGRA’s role and mission

The Emirates News Agency (WAM), in its announcement on September 3, unveiled the primary objectives of the GCGRA, signalling its pivotal role in the nation’s evolution. While the term “casinos” is not explicitly mentioned, the agency’s mandate hints at the possibility of a regulated gaming industry. The GCGRA is tasked with coordinating regulatory activities, overseeing licensing processes, and spearheading efforts to unlock the untapped economic potential of commercial gaming within the UAE.

The GCGRA grants federal authority to introduce a comprehensive regulatory framework for national lottery and commercial gaming. In doing so, it seeks to establish a socially responsible and well-regulated gaming environment underpinned by stringent guidelines and the highest compliance standards. With the overarching goal of ensuring responsible commercial gaming, the GCGRA aims to usher the UAE into a new entertainment and economic development era.

Stalwarts of the industry: key appointments

In a move that underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering a robust gaming industry, the nation appointed industry veterans to lead the GCGRA. Kevin Mullally, who previously held the executive director position at the Missouri Gaming Commission when riverboat casinos gained prominence in the U.S., has assumed the CEO role for the newly established authority. Mullally’s extensive experience in gaming regulation positions him as a formidable leader to steer the GCGRA toward its objectives.

Jim Murren, former chairman of the American Gaming Association and ex-chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, joins as the board of directors’ chairman. Murren’s rich history in the gaming industry, particularly during his tenure at MGM Resorts International, provides invaluable insight and expertise as the UAE embarks on this transformative journey.

The UAE’s historical stance on gambling, grounded in Islamic principles prohibiting such activities, has long been steadfast. However, recent developments have hinted at a shift in this long-standing policy. The conversion of the British liner Queen Elizabeth 2 into a hotel in Dubai in 2018, complete with deactivated slot machines, was an early indication of changing tides. The arrival of Caesars in 2018, opening an office within the UAE, further fuelled speculation regarding the nation’s evolving stance on gambling.

Notably, global gaming giants like Aria, MGM, and Bellagio have been involved in various construction projects within the Emirates, further cementing the notion of a budding industry.

The emirate of Ras al-Khaimah announced a partnership with Nevada-based Wynn Resorts last year. This partnership, characterized by Wynn Resorts’ subsequent management of an integrated resort, holds particular significance. Integrated resorts typically encompass a casino element, and this $3.9 billion project, known as Wynn Al Marjan Island, is slated to open its doors in early 2027.

A bold vision

Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings has not been subtle about his optimism regarding the UAE’s gaming prospects. During a recent quarterly earnings call, he declared the UAE “the most exciting gaming market in decades.” This statement underscores the immense potential that the UAE’s regulatory developments hold for the gaming and entertainment industry in the region.

If the UAE proceeds to issue its first gaming license, the Al Marjan Island resort will stand as the inaugural casino establishment in the country. However, it may serve as a harbinger of what lies ahead as the nation takes its initial steps into regulated gaming.

Conclusion

Establishing the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority marks a historic moment in the UAE’s journey toward embracing a regulated gaming industry. While rooted in Islamic tradition, the nation’s evolving perspective and strategic moves signal a departure from tradition, reflecting its economic growth and tourism development ambitions. With industry veterans at the helm and global gaming giants expressing keen interest, the UAE stands at the cusp of an exciting transformation with the potential to reshape the Gulf’s entertainment landscape.