Inteliumlaw

UAE Gaming License

The General Commercial Gambling Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) was established in 2023 and is the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authority responsible for issuing new federal licenses and regulating the overall industry. Despite being relatively new, GCGRA already has an impeccable reputation for implementing a transparent and comprehensive licensing system that meets the highest international quality standards.

The UAE gambling market has great potential, with estimates made by Morgan Stanley, one of the leading global investment banks, suggesting it could generate between $3 and $5 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR) annually. In doing so, the revenue generated can reach 1.6% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), making the market extremely sought-after for gambling operators.

Why Consider the UAE Gaming License?

The large size of the market, the country's premium tourism sector, and low competition generate high interest in obtaining a UAE gaming license for operators.

The holder of the UAE casino license enjoys a wide range of advantages:

  • Great return potential: The projections suggest that the UAE gambling market can bring $10.643 billion in annual revenue by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.851% from the 2021 figure. Subsequently, the UAE is already considered “one of the most anticipated new regulated [gambling] markets in the world,” according to the CEO of the company first licensed in the region.
  • Little competition: The UAE regulator is very cautious in granting a gaming license to any operator, with only a few issued in the first two years. As of the end of 2025, there are fewer than 20 in the UAE gambling regulator’s official register. In the nation where gambling has historically been prohibited, taking advantage of the largely untapped market at an early stage could result in great returns.
  • Consumer Trust and Recognition: The official permit from the regulator assures partners and players that its holder strictly adheres to the most rigorous standards for fair play, financial security, and responsible gaming practices. That said, compliant operators can benefit from enhanced brand reputation and strong player confidence.
  • Access to Reputable UAE Partners: Holding a UAE gaming license opens the door to world-class partnerships, from banking and technology providers to other high-class networking.
  • Potential Tax Advantages: Companies established in the region enjoy a low headline corporate tax rate compared to the global average. With 0% personal income, capital gains, and inheritance tax, coupled with sound legal structuring, gambling entrepreneurs can optimize costs and reinvest profit in growth.
  • Strong AML Framework: Operators licensed in the UAE are subject to a robust anti-money laundering (AML) regime, aligned with the FATF guidelines. Compliance with these standards not only protects the business but also adds an additional layer of trust for partners and customers.
Tobique
UAE
Curaçao
Malta
Scope of activities
All gaming verticals
Lottery, online gaming, and sports betting
Online casinos, sports betting, lottery, bingo, and eSports
Separate license for each type of gaming activity
Cost
EUR 36,000 license fees for the 1st year + technical compliance (only EUR 18,000 license fees for the 2nd year + technical compliance)
High
around EUR 55,000 in license fees only
around EUR 150,000–200,000, including maintenance
Time to obtain
4 to 10 weeks
up to 6 months
4 to 6 months
average: 6 months; more realistic: up to 12 months
Regulation
Tobique Gaming Commission
General Commercial Gambling Regulatory Authority
Curaçao Gaming Control Board
Malta Gaming Authority
Reputation
Emerging
High
Established
The highest
Taxation
No additional gaming taxes
Under development
Depends on expense structure, achievable around 2% or lower
achievable 5%

What Is the UAE Gaming License Cost?

Integrating gambling into the tourism sector, the government expects significant revenue to be generated for the economy. Consequently, the UAE gaming license price is set high as compared to offshore alternatives like Anjouan or Tobique.

There are 5 types of licenses, each falling into the following subcategories:

I. Entity Licenses

  • Gambling Operator license (made for land-based activities, lottery operators and retailers, online gaming and sports betting operators);
  • Gambling Vendor license (tailored to gambling goods, technology, and other solutions providers);
  • Corporations owning a part of the applicant’s business, such as “controllers, affiliates, or management service providers.”

II. Individual Licenses

  • Key Person license;
  • Gambling Employee license.

The UAE gambling license fees include the maintenance fee and the application fee, which is paid in several installments and is non-refundable:

  • The first installment of the fee is 10% of the total license fee and is due prior to the granting of the “In-Principle Approval.”
  • The license fee includes the remaining fee payable at the time the license is issued.
  • After getting a UAE gambling license, an operator must pay an annual license maintenance fee.

The GCGRA license fees, depending on the type, vary and are available upon further request. Contact Inteliumlaw by clicking here for up-to-date pricing information.

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What Does It Take to Get a UAE Gambling License?

1. Transparent corporate structure and local substance in the UAE

A local representative or contact person for communication with the regulator is among the top UAE gaming license requirements.

2. Compliance with financial requirements

Among other UAE gambling license requirements, the company must demonstrate financial stability, including sufficient reserves to cover operational risks.

3. Preparation of a package of documents

Documentation required to get a GCGRA license includes:

  • constituent documents (statutes, certificate of registration);
  • business plan;
  • information about shareholders, directors, and key employees;
  • confirmation of finances (bank statements, audit reports);
  • copies of passports and resumes of directors;
  • office lease agreement in the UAE (for certain business formats);
  • zoning documents;
  • contracts with counterparties (equipment suppliers, payment systems);
  • drafted AML/KYC policies;
  • and a comprehensive gambling compliance strategy and confirmation of compliance with local laws.

4. Compliance with responsible gambling

Availability of an anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) system, responsible gaming standards, qualified personnel, and confirmation of the quality of technical solutions.

A comprehensive list of UAE gambling license requirements is available at the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority website.

Restricted Countries and Compliance Considerations

The UAE casino license is a local license allowing operators to conduct business in all seven emirates, which suggests that, at least in the longer term, gambling may not be confined only to Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. Essentially, therefore, the answer to both “Is gaming legal in the UAE?” and “Is gaming legal in Dubai?” is “yes.” Yet, in other countries, companies must obtain a local license authorizing operations.

Every holder of the UAE lottery license has to comply with responsible gaming, technical standards (must be certified by an independent, GCGRA-approved testing laboratory), marketing rules (18+, no targeting of minors or vulnerable individuals, data security & privacy, and financial crime prevention (AML policies)).

Additionally, the UAE General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority establishes strict rules for commercial gambling activities, including mandatory requirements that cover many aspects, such as self-exclusion, spending limits, cooling-off periods, and more. The regulator’s data protection standards and anti-money laundering framework for UAE gambling operators also add up, ensuring a fairly high level of requirements for a business to meet before obtaining a license.

At the same time, operators with the UAE casino license remain subject to regular audits, reporting, and risk assessment based on the GCGRA compliance considerations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtain the UAE Gambling License for Foreigners

Obtaining a UAE gaming license usually takes about 6 months. The process is typically split between several stages:

How Inteliumlaw Can Assist with Getting a UAE Gaming License

Those exploring “How do I start a gaming business?” can look to the UAE, a standout Middle Eastern market with growing regulatory clarity.

How to get a gaming license in the UAE? The process of obtaining a UAE gambling license online requires careful planning, paperwork, and strict adherence to local laws and regulations. Having local presence in the country, Inteliumlaw experts are well-positioned to guide you through the licensing process, delivering end-to-end financial, legal, and corporate services at every stage of your business.

Our team is here to provide comprehensive support for your gaming licenses in the UAE, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Our team of experts will help you every step of the way to unlock the potential of the UAE gaming market. Take the first step today to get your license tomorrow.

Unique Approach

No two businesses are alike. That’s why Inteliumlaw offers a bespoke strategy that is precisely aligned with each business’s needs. 
 
With an unwavering commitment to excellence in delivering expert solutions, we have supported the success of over 50 high-level business endeavors around the globe.

Big 4-Caliber Expertise

Bringing years of experience from top-tier legal firms, Inteliumlaw minimizes time spent learning the client’s business model while maximizing efforts to address the legal matter(s).
 
We recognize the value of your time and strive to expedite the licensing procedure without compromising the thoroughness required for regulatory approval.

Full-Fledged Support

Inteliumlaw goes beyond obtaining licenses; we provide ongoing support to keep you informed and compliant with any regulatory changes. 
 
This includes opening bank account(s) abroad, legal and tax advice during global expansion, dispute resolution, representing clients’ interests before regulatory and financial institutions, and more.

Access to The Network of Relevant Connections

Through years of supporting businesses’ sustainable growth, Inteliumlaw has built a robust network of partners ranging from software developers and gaming technology providers to operators and white-label businesses – all designed to offer our clients immediate access to industry-leading solutions.

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How to Start a Gaming Company in Dubai?

To launch a gambling business in Dubai, entrepreneurs should seek legal advice from Inteliumlaw to register a company, get a visa, draft relevant policies, obtain a UAE gaming license for foreigners required to start operating, and achieve long-term regulatory compliance.

What is the UAE Gambling License?

The UAE gaming license is a legal permit issued by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) that authorizes companies to legally operate an online or land-based gambling business under the license terms.

How Long Does It Take to Obtain a Gambling License in the UAE?

Depending on each unique case – including the gambling vertical and the license type, required documents status, and more – the process of getting a GCGRA license in the UAE can last up to 6 months. With professional legal guidance from Inteliumlaw, however, this process can be seamless and worry-free for the applicant.

How Much Does the UAE Gambling License Cost?

According to the regulator, the UAE gaming license fees include a) a license fee (paid one-off) and b) an annual license maintenance fee. Depending on the license type and business structure, the gaming license cost varies widely and is not publicly disclosed. Reach out to Inteliumlaw lawyers for up-to-date price information.

Is the UAE Lottery Legal?

Since 2023, the country has legalized lottery gambling across all 7 emirates under strict licensing and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements.

Despite the long-standing ban on any type of gambling activity across the emirates, in 2023, the country established a General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), a federal agency that now regulates, licenses, and supervises commercial gambling, including lottery operations. So far, there are several GCGRA-approved companies authorized to conduct business in the UAE.

Can Inteliumlaw Legal Advisors Assist With Getting an Offshore Gambling License?

Yes, our experts can support businesses of all sizes in getting a gaming license in Anjouan, Curacao, and Tobique (startup-friendly), Nevis as well as Malta, Isle of Man, and Estonia (large operator-oriented).

What Aspects of Gambling Licensing Are Covered by Inteliumlaw Legal Services?

Inteliumlaw offers full-fledged support in getting a gaming license: from company incorporation, bank account registration, and license acquisition to hands-on help for firms to stay compliant amid an ever-evolving regulatory environment.

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