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Atif Nader
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A native of the UAE with over a decade in the casino industry, Atif Nader stands as a leading voice in iGaming. Graduating from the University of Dubai, he seamlessly merged academic brilliance with his passion for gaming. As a vital contributor to Dubai Casinos, Atif's expert insights guide users throughout their gambling journey, ensuring trustworthiness and strategic play. With Atif on board, you're in expert hands.
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UAE Reveals Plan for One Online License per Emirate
UAE Reveals Plan for One Online License per Emirate
In October 2025, the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) confirmed plans to implement a controlled online gambling structure that would allow one licensed digital gaming operator per emirate, pending approval by local authorities.
This marks a significant milestone in the country’s progressive rollout of a legal iGaming market and introduces a decentralized approval model that mirrors the UAE’s existing approach to land-based casinos.
Digital licensing model balances regulation with local authority
Emirate-Led Approvals Under Federal Oversight
Under the proposed model:
- Each of the seven emirates will have the option to authorize one online gaming operator.
- Licenses will be granted by the GCGRA but require emirate-level political approval.
- Operators must comply with strict national regulations covering responsible gaming, AML, cybersecurity, and geolocation controls.
This structure ensures flexibility for emirates that wish to remain gaming-free while allowing others (such as Ras Al Khaimah or potentially Abu Dhabi and Dubai) to move forward with digital casino and sportsbook licensing.
Market Implications
This model introduces a maximum of seven online operators, ensuring controlled growth and high regulatory standards. Industry analysts anticipate that only 2–4 emirates may opt in during the initial phase, creating a tightly held and highly competitive online gambling market.
Momentum Gaming—the UAE Lottery operator—has already taken preparatory steps to enter this space, and global platforms are positioning to apply when licenses open.
The announcement confirms that iGaming in the UAE is moving from speculation to structured implementation, with technical, legal, and operational foundations falling into place.
