A Maturing Gaming Market

As of December 2025, the United Arab Emirates’ gaming industry has evolved significantly from its 2024 inception. What began with two pioneering licenses has expanded into a sophisticated ecosystem with 17+ vendor licenses, an operational lottery celebrating over 100,000 winners, and the UAE’s first casino resort approaching its opening in early 2027.

This article provides a comprehensive, up-to-date analysis of all licenses granted, current operational status, major developments in 2025, and what these achievements mean for the UAE’s position as the Gulf region’s gaming hub.

Current License Status: December 2025 Overview

Operator Licenses Granted: 2

• UAE Lottery (The Game LLC) – Operational since November 2024
• Wynn Al Marjan Island (Wynn Resorts) – Opening Q1 2027

Vendor Licenses Granted: 17+

• Gaming equipment suppliers
• Technology platform providers
• Payment processors
• Sports data and integrity services

License Applications Under Review: Multiple

• MGM Resorts (Abu Dhabi) – Applied September 2024, pending decision
• Additional operators (undisclosed)
• Online gaming operators (framework finalized)

License #1: UAE Lottery – Over One Year of Operations

Operational Milestone: Historic First Jackpot Winner

License Granted: July 2024
Operations Launched: November 2024
Operational Status: 13+ months, fully operational
Licensee: The Game LLC (Momentum Group)

Major 2025 Achievement: AED 100 Million Winner

In October 2025, The UAE Lottery made history by announcing its first ever AED 100 million grand prize winner, Anilkumar Bolla, a 29 year old Indian national and Abu Dhabi resident who won in the 23rd Lucky Day Draw held on October 18, 2025.

This landmark win validated the lottery’s credibility and demonstrated that the AED 100 million jackpot was genuine, addressing early skepticism about whether anyone would actually win the top prize.

Performance Metrics (November 2024 – December 2025)

Total Winners Created: Over 100,000 winners across 25+ draws

Total Prizes Distributed: More than AED 147 million paid out to winners

Draw Frequency Evolution:

• Initial: Bi-weekly draws
• Current (as of November 2025): Weekly draws every Saturday
• Increasing frequency demonstrates growing market acceptance

Game Portfolio:

Lucky Day (Primary Game)

• Jackpot: AED 100 million
• Format: Players select 6 numbers (1-31) representing days, plus 1 number (1-12) representing month
• Ticket Price: AED 50
• Additional Prize: Lucky Chance ID gives extra chance at AED 100,000

Scratch Cards

• Lucky Lagoon: AED 5 entry, win up to AED 1,250
• Marble Run: AED 5 entry, win up to AED 1 million
• Various price points: AED 5 to AED 50

Market Impact and Evolution

Distribution Expansion: The lottery has expanded beyond online-only sales to explore retail partnerships with convenience stores and fuel stations, though the full retail network rollout continues to develop.

Player Demographics: Primary participation comes from the UAE’s expatriate community and international residents, representing the country’s diverse population demographics.

Game Innovation: In November 2025, The Game LLC announced the final AED 100 million Lucky Day draw before unveiling a new Lucky Day game format with new prize tiers and fresh ways to win, demonstrating continuous product evolution.

Strategic Significance

Regulatory Blueprint: The lottery’s successful 13+ months of operations provided the GCGRA with valuable operational experience in:

• Player protection implementation
• Responsible gaming program effectiveness
• AML/CFT compliance in practice
• Consumer engagement patterns
• Technical systems reliability

Revenue Generation: While specific revenue figures remain private, the lottery contributes:

• Gaming tax revenue (estimated single-digit percentage)
• 9% federal corporate tax
• Employment for hundreds of staff
• Technology sector development

Grey Market Elimination: The licensed lottery successfully displaced previously operating entities (Emirates Draw, Mahzooz), establishing GCGRA authority and creating a regulated alternative.

License #2: Wynn Al Marjan Island – Final Construction Phase

Current Status: December 2025

License Granted: October 2024
Current Phase: Advanced construction, pre-opening preparation
Opening Date: Q1 2027 (approximately 14 months away)
Total Investment: $5.1 billion

Latest Construction Progress

As of late November 2025, Wynn Al Marjan Island’s 305-meter main tower reached the 70th floor with topping out completed by the end of November 2025.

Structural Progress:

• Exterior facade installation reached 73% completion with 19,206 out of 26,247 panels successfully fitted
• Low-rise buildings construction nearing completion with concrete and steel work approximately 97% finished

Accommodations Progress:

• Structural work finished for 1,526 out of 1,530 total accommodations, representing 99.7% completion
• Interior fit-out underway in 1,504 rooms, approximately 98% of total accommodations

Investor Tour and Market Confidence

Wynn Resorts held an Analyst and Investor UAE Market Tour on December 4, 2025, with presentations on the UAE market and Wynn Al Marjan Island’s expected financial performance.

This high-profile investor event, featuring CEO Craig Billings and the Wynn Al Marjan Island management team, signaled:

• Confidence in on-time Q1 2027 opening
• Strong financial projections
• Institutional investor interest
• Market validation

Recent Corporate Developments

Stock Performance: Wynn Resorts stock reached $132.77 in early December 2025, with the Wynn Al Marjan Island project recently reaching topping-out construction milestone generating excitement in the luxury travel sector

Analyst Upgrades: Goldman Sachs added Wynn to its ‘Conviction Buy’ list, citing strength in Las Vegas business, Macau improvements, and the highly anticipated $5.1 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island resort

European Expansion: Wynn completed the purchase of Wynn Mayfair from Crown Resorts in late 2025 after receiving UK Gaming Commission approval, expanding Wynn’s footprint in Europe and the Middle East ahead of Wynn Al Marjan Island’s opening

The Resort: Comprehensive Specifications

Tower:

• Height: 305 meters (70 stories)
• 8th tallest hotel building globally
• 360-degree Arabian Gulf views

Accommodations:

• 1,217 resort rooms
• 297 Enclave suites (ultra-luxury, separate entrance)
• 10 Marina Estates
• 4 garden townhomes
• 2 royal apartments

Gaming Facilities:

• Main casino floor: 20,900 square meters (225,000 square feet)
• Sky Casino: 22nd floor premium gaming
• Table games: Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, poker
• Slot machines: Hundreds of units across multiple brands
• High-limit gaming salons
• VIP services and dedicated hosts

Dining and Entertainment:

• 22 restaurants, lounges, and bars
• Alain Ducasse French-American steakhouse
• Delilah supper club (first international location)
• Indo-Persian, Italian, Lebanese, Indian, Greek, Japanese cuisines
• Nightclub with international DJs
• The Showroom theatre with unique production shows

Amenities:

• Coral Court Events & Celebrations Center spanning 7,700 square meters with column-free grand ballroom, six adaptable meeting rooms, and event lawn with Arabian Sea views
• Five-star spa and wellness center
• 15,000 square meters shopping esplanade
• 12 swimming pools
• 420-meter white sand beach
• Beach club
• 101-berth marina (yachts up to 85 meters)

Financial Projections (Unchanged)

Annual Gross Gaming Revenue: $1.33 – $1.67 billion
Total Operating Revenue: $1.38 – $1.88 billion
EBITDAM Target: Minimum $500 million annually
VIP Contribution: 37% from international VIP players

Employment and Hiring

Wynn Resorts commenced hiring staff for the resort in May 2025, listing multiple job openings less than two years prior to the planned opening.

The hiring process includes:

• Gaming personnel (dealers, pit managers, security)
• Hospitality staff (hotel operations, food & beverage)
• Technical specialists (systems, maintenance)
• Management and executive positions
• Training programs for UAE nationals and residents

Monopoly Position Through 2027+

15-Year Exclusivity: Wynn holds exclusive gaming rights in Ras Al Khaimah emirate through 2039, renewable.

Competitive Advantage: With opening in Q1 2027 and no other UAE casinos expected before late 2028 at earliest, Wynn enjoys:

• 1-2 years minimum monopoly in UAE casino market
• First-mover advantage establishing brand presence
• Opportunity to build loyal customer base
• Market learning before competition arrives

Vendor Licenses: Expanding Ecosystem

Gaming Equipment Suppliers

Aristocrat Gaming (October 2024)

• First vendor license granted
• Supplies: Slot machines, EGMs, online gaming technology
• Status: Primary slot supplier for Wynn Al Marjan Island

IGT (International Gaming Technology)

• Gaming equipment and systems
• Global slot machine leader

Novomatic

• European gaming equipment manufacturer
• Slot machines and casino technology

Technology Platform Providers

Hub88 Holdings Ltd (October 2025)

• iGaming platform provider, recently received gaming-related vendor license
• Online casino platform technology
• Prepares infrastructure for online gaming operations

Sports Data and Integrity Services

Sportradar AG (October 2025)

• Received gaming-related vendor license from GCGRA effective October 21, 2025, enabling delivery of data-driven technology, sports analytics, and integrity services to licensed gaming operators
• Sports betting data feeds
• Integrity monitoring and match-fixing prevention
• Real-time analytics
• By October 2025, the GCGRA had granted 17 licenses to companies that supply gaming equipment

Payment Services

PayBy (November 2024)

• Digital payment platform
• Gaming transaction processing
• Supports cashless gaming ecosystem
• UAE-based with Ant Group and Etisalat backing

Strategic Vendor Ecosystem Development

The GCGRA’s methodical vendor licensing creates essential infrastructure before B2C operator licenses:

Technological Foundation: Equipment suppliers, platform providers, payment processors establish operational capability

Integrity Framework: Sports integrity providers like Sportradar ensure fair play and fraud prevention

Compliance Infrastructure: Systems for AML, responsible gaming, player protection

Innovation Encouragement: GCGRA CEO Kevin Mullally at SBC Summit Lisbon in September 2025 stated the UAE wants to redefine what gaming is for the rest of the world, encouraging suppliers to design products based on creativity and player engagement rather than limiting development to fit existing regulatory molds

Online Gaming: Framework Finalized, Licenses Imminent

One License Per Emirate Model

The GCGRA will follow a model allowing one B2C online gaming license per emirate for each of the UAE’s seven emirates, with each emirate determining individually whether to participate.

Anticipated Participation:

• Industry analysts expect no more than two or three emirates to opt in for online gaming operations initially
• Abu Dhabi and Dubai most likely to proceed
• Ras Al Khaimah may wait given Wynn’s land-based monopoly

License Scope:

• Online casino games
• Sports wagering
• Poker rooms
• Fantasy sports
• eSports betting

Timeline: Recent issuance of B2B supplier licenses suggests operator licenses for online gaming and sports wagering are imminent

Regulatory Philosophy: Innovation-Led

GCGRA’s approach to online gaming emphasizes innovation over restriction:

Kevin Mullally stated: “Technology should lead, not the regulations, so if you can design a game that uses new concepts, uses reflexive math, combines elements of skill with elements of chance, integrates social media and figures out how to entertain your customers – the operators’ customers – in the best way you can, we will figure out a way to regulate it”

This forward-thinking philosophy positions UAE as:

• Innovation hub for gaming technology
• Attractive jurisdiction for cutting-edge operators
• Leader in adaptive regulation
• Global benchmark for gaming oversight

License Application Under Review: MGM Resorts

Application Status: 14+ Months Under Review

Application Filed: September 2024
Target Location: Abu Dhabi
Status as of December 2025: Pending decision, no announcement

MGM’s UAE Strategy

Existing Dubai Project:

• Non-gaming luxury resort development (Jumeirah Beach)
• Partnership with Wasl Hospitality and Leisure (since 2017)
• 1,500 rooms across MGM, Bellagio, Aria brands
• 150,000 square feet reserved for potential gaming
• Expected completion: Q3 2028

Abu Dhabi Focus: MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle stated in September 2024 that MGM applied for a casino license in Abu Dhabi, noting the federal government and Abu Dhabi government will approve it, with each emirate having authority to say yes or no

Extended Review Period: What It Means

GCGRA’s Measured Approach: The 14+ month review period without decision signals:

1. Thorough Vetting: Comprehensive due diligence, financial review, operational assessment
2. Strategic Timing: GCGRA focused on Wynn’s successful opening before adding competition
3. Abu Dhabi Evaluation: Capital emirate carefully considering gaming’s role in its tourism strategy
4. Market Capacity: Assessing whether UAE market can support multiple casinos immediately

MGM’s Patience: MGM continues Dubai development while awaiting decision, demonstrating:

• Long-term commitment to UAE market
• Willingness to invest without gaming certainty
• Confidence in eventual approval
• Strategic positioning for post-Wynn market entry

Potential Timeline

Realistic Scenario:

• Decision: Late 2025 or 2026
• If approved: Construction 2026-2029
• Opening: 2029-2030
• Creates 2-3 year gap after Wynn for market establishment

Conservative Scenario:

• Extended review into 2026-2027
• Decision based on Wynn’s 2027 performance
• Opening: 2030+

No Additional Casino Licenses Expected Near-Term

GCGRA’s Deliberate Expansion Strategy

The regulatory authority has consistently emphasized measured growth:

Focus on Quality: Ensuring existing licensees maintain high operational standards

Market Assessment: Evaluating Wynn’s performance and market capacity before expansion

Regulatory Capacity: Building institutional capability to supervise multiple major operators

Economic Optimization: Avoiding market saturation that could undermine operator success

Other Potential Operators

While no other applications have been publicly confirmed, potential future candidates include:

Caesars Entertainment: Previously operated non-gaming Caesars Bluewaters Dubai (withdrew 2023), could return for gaming opportunity

Las Vegas Sands/Sands China: Marina Bay Sands Singapore operator, proven integrated resort expertise

Melco Resorts: Macau operator with luxury positioning and Asian market knowledge

Genting Group: Resorts World Singapore operator, Malaysian company with Muslim-majority market experience

However, none have confirmed license applications as of December 2025.

Building Sustainable Gaming Ecosystem

The GCGRA’s licensing approach focuses on creating a sustainable, high-quality gaming industry:

Quality Over Quantity

Selective Licensing:

• Choosing operators with exceptional credentials and track records
• Establishing technology leaders with proven reliability
• Comprehensive vetting ensuring operational excellence

Regulatory Excellence:

• Developing expertise managing sophisticated gaming operations
• Learning from each licensee’s implementation
• Continuous improvement of oversight capabilities

Strategic Market Development

Phased Approach:

• Phase 1 (2024): Lottery and vendor licenses
• Phase 2 (2024-2027): First casino, expanded vendor ecosystem
• Phase 3 (2026+): Online gaming, potential second casino
• Future phases: Sports betting, additional emirates participation

Economic Value Optimization:

• Strategic license allocation ensures substantial operator investment
• Focus on premium experiences and world-class facilities
• Sustainable growth supporting long-term prosperity

Emirates Collaboration and Development

The GCGRA’s federal structure enables each emirate to participate according to its strategic priorities:

Ras Al Khaimah: Pioneering gaming development with Wynn resort as economic transformation catalyst

Abu Dhabi: Evaluating opportunities through MGM application, measured approach befitting capital status

Dubai: Positioning for potential gaming integration with existing entertainment infrastructure, MGM development provides foundation

Other Emirates: Monitoring developments, individual decisions based on local priorities

This structure allows coordinated yet adaptable development, with each emirate contributing to the country’s overall success.

Economic Impact: Year in Review

Direct Economic Benefits (2025 Performance)

UAE Lottery Contribution:

• Over AED 147 million in prizes distributed
• Estimated AED 20-30 million in tax revenue
• Hundreds of direct employment positions
• Technology and retail ecosystem development

Vendor Ecosystem:

• 17+ international companies establishing UAE presence
• Technology transfer and innovation
• Local technical expertise development
• Regional supply chain enhancement

Construction Activity:

• Thousands employed in Wynn construction
• Billions in construction spending circulating in economy
• Infrastructure improvements (roads, utilities, telecommunications)
• Real estate value appreciation in Ras Al Khaimah

Tourism and Investment Impact

Pre-Opening Momentum: Even before Wynn’s opening, the gaming industry generates:

• International investor interest and capital flows
• Tourism marketing highlighting upcoming attractions
• Real estate investment around Al Marjan Island
• Hospitality sector expansion in anticipation

Regional Leadership: UAE’s first-mover advantage establishes:

• Gulf gaming hub positioning
• Attract visitors from GCC countries, India, Asia, Europe
• Economic diversification demonstration
• Modern, regulated market model for region

Employment and Skills Development

Direct Employment Created:

• Wynn: Hiring underway for 5,000-8,000 permanent positions
• UAE Lottery: Hundreds of operational staff
• Vendors: Technical support and specialized roles
• GCGRA: Regulatory and oversight personnel

Skills Ecosystem:

• Gaming dealer training programs
• Hospitality excellence education
• Technology and systems management
• Compliance and regulatory expertise
• Management and leadership development

2025 Milestones Achieved

January-October 2025:

• UAE Lottery completing regular draws, building winner base
• Wynn construction advancing from structural to finishing phases
• Vendor license expansion to 17+ companies
• Online gaming framework finalized

October 2025:

• First AED 100 million jackpot winner (Anilkumar Bolla)
• Sportradar and Hub88 vendor licenses
• One-license-per-emirate online model announced

November 2025:

• Wynn Al Marjan Island tower topping out completed
• Investor tour scheduled for December
• UAE Lottery announces new game format

December 2025:

• Wynn investor presentation demonstrating market confidence
• 14+ months since first casino license, opening 14 months away
• Vendor ecosystem fully established for 2027 operations

Looking Ahead: 2026-2027 Expectations

2026 Anticipated Developments

Q1-Q2 2026:

• Potential MGM license decision
• First online gaming licenses likely granted
• Wynn interior fit-out and systems installation acceleration
• Additional vendor licenses for online gaming suppliers

Q3-Q4 2026:

• Wynn staff training programs intensify
• Gaming equipment installation begins
• Soft opening preparations
• Marketing campaigns for 2027 launch

2027: Transformative Year

Q1 2027:

• Wynn Al Marjan Island Grand Opening – UAE’s first casino resort begins operations
• Initial gaming revenue generation
• Tourism influx to Ras Al Khaimah
• Regional media attention

Post-Opening:

• Performance assessment and market validation
• Online gaming operations potentially launching
• Additional emirate decisions on gaming participation
• Potential announcement of second land-based license (MGM or others)

Conclusion: A Market Ready for Prime Time

As December 2025 concludes, the UAE gaming industry stands at a pivotal moment:

Operational Success: UAE Lottery’s 13+ months of successful operations, including a historic AED 100 million winner, validates the regulatory framework and market appetite.

Infrastructure Complete: With 17+ vendor licenses granted, the technological and operational ecosystem is ready to support world-class gaming operations.

Wynn on Track: The $5.1 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island project approaching completion represents the industry’s cornerstone, opening in approximately 14 months.

Innovation Leadership: The GCGRA’s forward-thinking approach to online gaming regulation positions UAE as a global innovation hub.

Measured Expansion: Deliberate licensing strategy ensures quality, sustainability, and operator success rather than rapid, potentially destabilizing growth.

Economic Catalyst: Gaming industry already generating employment, investment, real estate appreciation, and international attention before major operations commence.

The UAE has successfully transformed from gaming prohibition to sophisticated regulatory framework in just over two years. With operational lottery success, imminent casino opening, and comprehensive vendor ecosystem, the country has laid the foundation for a sustainable, world-class gaming industry.

The next 14 months leading to Wynn’s Q1 2027 opening will be crucial in demonstrating the UAE’s ability to deliver on its gaming industry vision. Early indicators construction progress, investor confidence, regulatory professionalism, and market reception all point toward successful execution.

The UAE gaming story is no longer about potential. It’s about execution, performance, and establishing the Emirates as the Gulf’s premier gaming destination.