Novomatic AG has secured a Gaming Related Vendor Licence issued by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This license marks a significant step for Novomatic in its efforts to become one of the first manufacturers and distributors of gaming machines operating within the UAE’s forthcoming regulatory framework for gambling and lotteries.
In 2023, the UAE federation approved the creation of the GCGRA as the federal body responsible for developing and implementing the regulatory structure for commercial gambling activities.
Under the leadership of U.S. executive Kevin Mullally, the GCGRA announced last year that Wynn Resorts had been awarded the concession to develop a casino resort in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
Wynn Resorts is expected to open its resort in 2027, building a hotel and entertainment complex with 1,000 rooms. However, the GCGRA has yet to confirm the gaming capacity and operational standards that will govern gambling in the UAE.
To date, the GCGRA has granted licenses to two gaming service providers: Novomatic and its competitor Aristocrat Gaming.
Stefan Krenn, Member of the Executive Board of Novomatic AG Group, commented on the licence approval: “Receiving this licence as one of the first gaming technology groups worldwide is a significant milestone for Novomatic. This honour reflects our unwavering commitment to offer the most innovative products fulfilling the highest standards of responsible gaming. As we enter this exciting opportunity in the United Arab Emirates market, we successfully continue our international expansion strategy.”
In November 2024, the UAE launched its first officially regulated national lottery, which is licensed and overseen by the GCGRA. Additionally, the country began drafting and implementing federal gaming legislation, including the establishment of regulations for responsible gambling, licensing, compliance, and law enforcement. Work is also ongoing to clearly define the boundaries between permitted and prohibited forms of gambling.
Thomas Schmalzer, Vice President of Global Sales and Product Management at Novomatic AG, added: “As a leading global player in the gaming industry, Novomatic is excited to bring its cutting-edge product portfolio to this dynamic and rapidly growing market.
Our latest gaming solutions are designed to deliver exceptional performance to land-based gaming facilities across the United Arab Emirates, ensuring that international players can enjoy their preferred games with the same high standards and quality they expect from other jurisdictions worldwide.”
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