The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step in formalizing its commercial gaming sector by issuing the first official license for online gaming and sports wagering. The landmark license was granted by the country’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which was established in September 2023.
The newly licensed platform, Play971, is operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC. This move marks the 19th license issued by the GCGRA overall but is the first of its kind in the internet gaming and sports wagering categories, signaling a new era for regulated digital entertainment in the country.
A New Player Enters the Game
Play971, operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, is now officially listed as a licensee on the GCGRA’s website under both the ‘Internet Gaming’ and ‘Sports Wagering’ categories. The platform’s website confirms that it is located, licensed, and regulated within the UAE.
This development establishes a clear legal framework for operators and consumers, positioning the UAE as a forward-thinking regulator in a rapidly growing global market.
The Regulatory Framework
To ensure a secure and responsible gaming environment, Play971 has implemented strict terms and conditions. According to the platform, users must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the UAE to register an account, deposit funds, or participate in games.
The platform explicitly prohibits the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) or any other methods to obscure a user’s location or identity. Furthermore, it outlines specific financial eligibility requirements for registration and has integrated safeguards and support tools aimed at fostering responsible gaming practices among its users.
Defining Commercial Gaming in the UAE
The GCGRA provides a broad definition for commercial gaming, encompassing any game of chance, or a combination of chance and skill, where money or its equivalent is wagered to win a prize.
This definition covers a wide range of activities, including lotteries, internet gaming, sports wagering, and land-based gaming facilities. The regulatory scope also extends to gaming machines, electronic skill-based games, and event wagering on activities such as sports and horse racing, creating a comprehensive regulatory umbrella for the entire sector.
About Play971
Play971 is the first platform to receive an official license for internet gaming and sports wagering from the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). Operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, the platform offers regulated online gaming and betting services exclusively to users who are physically located within the UAE and meet the age and financial eligibility requirements.
Source: Waya
