A New Era for Online Betting in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates has made a significant move by introducing legal online betting through licensed platforms. This marks a shift in the country’s stance on gambling, allowing residents and visitors to bet real money online under a federal regulatory framework. The framework aims to control access and protect consumers, ensuring a safe and secure environment for online betting.
Introduction of Play971
At the forefront of this change is Play971, the first internet gaming and sports betting website approved by the country’s federal regulator, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority. The platform, operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, an Abu Dhabi-based company, allows users 21 and older to place bets on worldwide sports events, such as football, cricket, and horse racing, as well as offers casino games like blackjack and roulette.
Only individuals located within the UAE can access the website, which utilizes VPN-blocking technology to enforce this location rule. The regulator’s approval places Play971 in both internet gaming and sports betting license groups, making it the UAE’s first legal online betting service for real money.
Strict Controls and Player Protection
The system has robust safeguards in place, requiring players to verify their identity using their Emirates ID and use personal bank accounts in their own name for transactions. Additionally, players may be subject to extra rules depending on their location within the UAE, demonstrating the country’s willingness to grant local authorities some control.
Responsible gaming is a key aspect of the new regulations, with Play971 providing players with tools to limit their spending, take forced breaks, or self-exclude for an extended period. The platform also offers resources for players to access mental health and counseling services, showcasing officials’ concerns about potential gambling problems as the market opens up.
A Broader Shift in the UAE’s Gaming Industry
This development is part of a larger shift in the UAE’s approach to commercial gaming. In 2024, the country launched its first regulated national lottery, and plans are underway to open the UAE’s first casino resort with a hotel at Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, led by Wynn Resorts, scheduled to open in 2027.
Market experts view the introduction of legal online betting as a sign that the UAE is moving towards regulating and overseeing the gaming industry rather than prohibiting it outright. While gambling remains illegal outside the licensed system, the careful launch of platforms like Play971 demonstrates the country’s efforts to establish a transparent and regulated gaming industry, aiming to reduce illegal activities while protecting customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UAE’s decision to allow legal online betting through licensed platforms marks a significant milestone in the country’s gaming industry. With the introduction of Play971 and the implementation of strict controls and player protection measures, the UAE is taking a step towards creating a safe and regulated environment for online betting. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the UAE balances the need to control and regulate gaming with the demand for entertainment and leisure activities.
