Scientific Games Granted UAE Licensing as New Supplier in the Region

Scientific Games Granted UAE Licensing as New Supplier in the Region

Scientific Games Enters UAE Gaming Market with GCGRA License

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) gaming market is rapidly growing and emerging as a significant economic sector[1], with revenue surpassing $1 billion in 2023[1]. This growth has attracted major gaming suppliers, including Scientific Games, which has recently secured a Gaming-Related Vendor's license from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in the UAE.

The GCGRA, founded in 2023, regulates commercial gaming activities in the UAE[6]. With this approval, Scientific Games can now supply its products and services to local entities in the UAE[4]. As a key provider with experience in supplying clients across five continents, Scientific Games brings valuable assets to its UAE operation[5].

The UAE's gaming market is strengthening further with the licensing of companies like Scientific Games and Light & Wonder[2][4]. This licensing fosters a regulated, player-friendly environment conducive to sustainable industry growth. The market's growth is driven by factors such as government support, high gaming penetration, advanced digital infrastructure, and international competitiveness[1][2][3][4].

Regionally, the UAE contributes substantially to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) gaming market, which is forecasted to exceed $2.2 billion in revenue in 2025[3][5]. The UAE leads in average revenue per user (ARPU) at about $84.6, surpassing neighboring Saudi Arabia and Egypt[3][5]. Mobile gaming dominates player spending, but console and PC gaming are also significant[3][5].

Looking ahead, with continued government facilitation and growing international supplier presence, the UAE gaming market is poised for sustained expansion, both in revenue and user base[1][3][4]. This expansion supports the nation’s broader ambitions to become a global tech and entertainment center[1][3][4].

Major casino companies are optimistic and closely monitoring the latest developments in the UAE's gaming industry. The president of Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah commented on the property's future, stating that it is poised to set a new hospitality standard in the emirates[7].

In summary, the UAE gaming market is robust and accelerating, with promising growth trajectories aligned with supportive policies and strong regional demand. With the addition of Scientific Games, the market is set to become even more dynamic and competitive, offering exciting opportunities for both local and international operators.

[1] The Gaming Market in the United Arab Emirates

[2] GCGRA Approves Major Gaming Suppliers

[3] MENA Gaming Market Forecast

[4] Scientific Games Secures Gaming-Related Vendor's License

[5] UAE Gaming Market Analysis

[6] GCGRA Overview

[7] Wynn Al Marjan Island Future Plans

1. Scientific Games, with its expertise in casino-and-gambling technology and sports-betting, is expected to bring a significant value addition to the rapidly growing and competitive UAE gaming market, fostering a regulated yet dynamic environment.
2. As the UAE gaming market continues to expand, with its disposable income and advanced digital infrastructure, it is attracting major sports-betting companies, who envision the region as a potential hub for casino-and-gambling activities, aligning with the nation’s broader ambitions to become a global tech and entertainment center.

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