The Emirates is undergoing something of a cultural shift when it comes to more liberal attitudes and activities, many of which are already commonplace in the West. While the country remains one with a deep connection to the Islamic faith, it is also becoming seen as an increasingly tolerant and progressive society. By means of example, we’re going to take a closer look at the growing casino industry in the Emirates and how it came to pass.
A new casino license in the Emirates
Many laws in the UAE are originally based on the teaching of the Quran that states gambling of any kind is illegal. While this has been followed strictly for centuries, changing attitudes in the country have led to a more liberal class of young people looking to explore new activities and opportunities. A pastime that was once easy to prohibit by preventing physical casinos from being built has come to be commonplace online.
Clearly the ruling class does not want to criminalize and demonize the next generation for doing something that is commonplace amongst their peers in other parts of the world. All this would do is push online gaming and gambling underground where it cannot be overseen and regulated via the proper channels. With this shift in behavior in mind, the GCGRA was set up to create a legal framework for gambling in the UAE.
Key issues that need to be discussed and considered by this ruling body include:
- Definitive criteria for what constitutes online gambling and gaming so that licenses can be issued accordingly
- A clear framework that all responsible forms of gambling need to fit within so that they operate within the rules
- The charging and collection of penalties in a way that is both fully transparent and yet still acts as a suitable deterrent
Each of these steps will require careful consideration because any changes that are made to the law need to be in line with the wider culture of the UAE. Just because other countries have legalized online gambling decades ago doesn’t mean that the exact same legal framework can be used in the UAE. Cultural sensitivities, evolving societal norms, and religious teaching all need to be factored into the equation if the solution is going to work for everyone. This is a key point to note when assessing the changes in the UAE in terms of speed, scope, and extent.
The first steps towards change in the UAE
One of the most significant changes occurred in July 2024 when The GAME LLC was awarded the first lottery license. They are now legally allowed to collect money from eligible players, set odds, carry out a prize draw, and award prizes to winning parties. All of this is done within the guidelines of the clear legal framework that the GCGRA has laid out in the preceding years.
What must be stressed at this point is the need for full oversight by the independent auditors who work for the GCGRA. Their job is to make sure that the lottery is conducted in a manner that is fair to all and fully transparent to anyone who wants to delve a little deeper into the inner workings of the game. This is essential given that there will inevitably be a minority of players who look to beat the system by attempting to circumvent the rules.
While people all over the world play some form of national lottery, the real money lies in the operation of casinos where much higher stakes can be wagered. Jump forward a further three months to October of last year and the breakthrough news that Wynn Resorts had made headway made waves across the UAE.
Their gambling license was issued by the GCGRA and has led to a $5 billion building project that is set to open its doors at some point in 2027. Alongside the 225,000-square-foot casino floor will be in excess of 1,500 rooms spread across suites, villas, and modern townhouses. Not only will the casino become a major employer and central travel destination, it will also serve as a proof of concept for other operators looking to expand into the UAE. Good news for those who are looking to make money from the progressively liberal attitude that is gaining strength in this part of the world.
It is also worth noting that the rise of gaming in Dubai is not limited solely to a national lottery or one large casino development. Moves are also being made to set up and run a large number of fully regulated, highly reputable online casinos.
The rise of Dubai online casinos
You only have to perform a quick Google search online to see that this is something of a growth industry right now. Finding a reputable Dubai casino that offers easy access to a wide array of different games is as simple as clicking in the right place. Notable names include:
- Emir Bet: A site that offers new players up to 150 free spins so that they can try out various methods of gameplay without having to put real money on the line
- Casino Lab: A fully transparent online casino that will gift new players 200 free spins simply for signing up and pitting their wits against the odds
- Lucky 7: A vibrantly themed casino that will give any eligible new player 200 free spins as part of their secure signup process
It is worth noting that all Dubai casinos have to perform ID checks on new players to ensure they operate within the confines of the new legal framework. This is to make sure that all of the new games and gaming operators that are popping up are operating in a fair, secure, and transparent manner. Good news for players who want to be able to test themselves against the odds and investors who want to back innovative businesses safe in the knowledge that they are being run the right way.
Other options for online players in Dubai
While our study has focused on free spins and how they allow new players to try a game without risking real money, there is another class of opening offer out there right now. Royal Casino currently offers a $500 bonus in the form of a wager multiplier that will significantly increase the size of the initial stake laid down. This is aimed more at experienced players or high net worth individuals who want to be able to maximize their potential returns should they win.
By combining online casinos, a lottery, and the development of a luxury resort, the new legal framework is providing something for everyone. Whether it is an occasional bet or regular high-value play, Dubai is set to become the go-to destination for players from all walks of life. By adding legal clarity and cultural tolerance to a part of the world that is already known for luxury and service, the results could well be breathtaking.
We predict that the Emirates will become a central destination for players from all over the world who would have previously had to choose between Las Vegas and Macau. Add in the rapid growth of the luxury retail and hospitality industries and it becomes an even more attractive proposition.
