UAE authorities set up national lottery and commercial gaming regulator

The authorities of the United Arab Emirates have created a federal regulator that will manage the national lottery, as well as manage the field of commercial games. As noted The Associated Pressthis may indicate that the UAE is preparing to give permission to work in the casino country.

Kevin Mullally, who at one time headed the Commission for the Regulation of the Gaming Industry in the State of Missouri (USA), has been appointed the General Director of the regulator (General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, GCGRA). Jim Merren, former head of US casino operator MGM Resorts International, has been appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors of GCGRA.

According to Emirati media, the regulator “will create a socially responsible and well-regulated environment for the gaming industry, making sure that all participants adhere to clear rules and meet the highest standards.” The regulator will coordinate the work of all structures in the industry, manage the issuance of licenses and “help build the economic potential of commercial games.” As AP notes, there has long been talk in the UAE about using casinos to bring money into the country and develop the tourism industry, especially in Dubai.

Alena Miklashevskaya