A bird's eye view of Dubai. ARCHIVE

The UAE's General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has issued gaming vendor licenses to three companies, marking another step in the country's evolving gaming sector. This brings the total number of licensed entities to five, as the UAE continues to establish a regulated and innovative gaming environment. Among the newly licensed companies is Aristocrat, an international gaming content creator known for land-based and online gaming solutions. The company offers electronic gaming machines (EGMs), online games, and technology tailored to diverse player preferences. "We are thrilled to bring our expertise to the UAE, contributing to its growing gaming ecosystem," an Aristocrat representative said. Joining the fold is Smartplay International, a provider of lottery and gaming equipment. Known for its cutting-edge technology, Smartplay manufactures traditional lottery machines, digital random number generators, raffle systems, and more. The third addition, UAE-based PayBy Technology Projects, offers fintech services to gaming operators, including secure payment systems, digital wallets, and fraud detection technologies. The UAE's regulated gaming landscape began taking shape earlier this year, with landmark developments like Wynn Resorts receiving a 15-year gaming license for its Ras Al Khaimah property. In July, Abu Dhabi-based The Game LLC became the country's first authorized lottery operator, focusing on game development and lottery operations. The GCGRA’s licensing framework includes five categories: lottery, land-based gaming facilities, internet gaming, sports wagering, and gaming-related vendors. By enabling a transparent and regulated market, the authority aims to create a safe and innovative gaming environment while attracting global gaming leaders. Industry insiders view these developments as a significant leap for the UAE, with gaming poised to contribute to the economy and tourism. "With the right regulations and players, the UAE has the potential to become a major gaming hub," a sector expert told Expat Media. ICA/Expat Media
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