Scientific Games and Random State Receive Approval from UAE Gambling Regulator
Scientific Games and Random State are the newest companies to obtain Gaming Related Vendor licenses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has granted approval for these two global gaming technology firms to provide their services to the developing lottery sector in the UAE. With this, the total number of licensed suppliers has now reached nine.
Some of the previously authorized vendors include manufacturers of slot machines and payment solutions, such as IGT Global Services, Novomatic, and Aristocrat Technologies Europe.
The GCGRA was formed in 2023 to develop the regulatory framework for gambling, national lotteries, and commercial gaming within the market. In June 2022, it issued the nation’s sole lottery license to The Game LLC. Subsequently, in 2024, it awarded the first land-based casino gaming license to Wynn Resorts in the UAE.
Scientific Games Embraces Opportunities in UAE
With a presence in 50 countries, Scientific Games expressed its enthusiasm about introducing its lottery offerings in the UAE.
“We are thrilled to have received this license as a lottery supplier in the UAE,” said Michael Conforti, president of international business for Scientific Games. “We eagerly anticipate leveraging our 50 years of experience in the UAE to provide top-quality products that will responsibly generate revenue for lottery initiatives supporting local communities and significant national projects.”
Random State Celebrates ‘Significant Achievement’
Random State, a company based in Sweden that specializes in real-money eInstant games and customized digital lottery products, sees promising prospects in the UAE market.
“The UAE is poised to become one of the most vibrant digital lottery markets globally,” noted Adam Fonsica, co-founder and chief operating officer at Random State. “Securing the GCGRA’s trust is a significant achievement for us. We are excited to launch our gamified eInstants and tailored draw games for local audiences later this year.”
UAE Lottery Launch Timeline Uncertain
The licensed entity, The Game LLC, serves as the UAE Lottery, providing a variety of lottery games and related products. Ticket sales commenced in November 2024, leading up to its first draw scheduled for December 14.
In the lead-up to this event, the GCGRA issued a notice confirming that the UAE Lottery is the sole legally sanctioned lottery nationwide. Additionally, two duty-free lotteries—Big Ticket at Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai Duty Free—are permitted to conduct draws for travelers.
Last year, the GCGRA stated that the UAE Lottery “addresses the diverse interests and financial preferences of players.”
The GCGRA characterizes The Game as “a commercial gaming operator focused on game development, lottery operations, and gaming-related content.” The company is a subsidiary of Momentum, an Abu Dhabi-based firm that touts its expertise in mobile game development and publishing, virtual reality, iGaming, and esports management.
Wynn Resorts, which holds a casino gaming license, is already in the process of constructing its Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort. This project in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is a collaboration between entities of Wynn Resorts, Marjan, and RAK Hospitality Holding.
Wynn anticipates opening this extensive multi-billion-dollar venture in the first quarter of 2027. Situated just 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport, it lies approximately 65 miles from Dubai, the largest city in the UAE.
The resort will feature a gaming floor, over 1,000 hotel rooms, convention spaces, retail options, and diverse dining experiences.