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GCGRA CEO Steps Down as UAE Gaming Expansion Advances
GCGRA CEO Steps Down as UAE Gaming Expansion Advances
In November 2025, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) of the UAE announced a major leadership change. Kevin Mullally, the founding CEO of the authority, officially stepped down, citing personal reasons. Jim Murren, the GCGRA’s chairman, was appointed as interim CEO to ensure continuity during the ongoing expansion of the Emirates’ gaming framework.
Mullally’s Tenure and Impact
Kevin Mullally, a seasoned U.S. regulator, played a key role in:
- Establishing the UAE’s federal commercial gaming framework
- Issuing the country’s first casino license (Wynn Resorts, RAK)
- Launching the UAE Lottery
- Coordinating with global counterparts like New Jersey to adopt best practices
His departure comes after guiding the country through the foundational phase of its regulated gaming environment.
Jim Murren Takes the Helm
Jim Murren, former CEO of MGM Resorts and instrumental in shaping the GCGRA’s long-term vision, stepped into the executive role as interim leader. In public comments, he reaffirmed the UAE’s direction:
“We expect two to four integrated resorts across the UAE in the next five to ten years,”
— Jim Murren, November 2025
His leadership is expected to focus on execution, particularly in overseeing:
- Continued development of the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort (on track for 2027)
- Finalization of online gambling licensing protocols
- Expansion into other emirates for physical and digital gaming operations
This transition signals that the UAE’s gaming project is moving from foundational setup to active rollout, requiring experienced industry oversight as it enters its next phase.
