UAE Expands iGaming Market with New Vendor Licences and Lottery Tech Deal

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken significant steps in the development of its regulated gambling market, awarding new vendor licences to EQL Games and Novomatic. In a parallel move, the country’s national lottery operator, The Game LLC, has partnered with North American geolocation specialist Xpoint to enhance compliance with regulatory requirements.

Novomatic Secures UAE Gaming Vendor Licence

The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has granted a commercial gaming vendor licence to Austrian-based supplier Novomatic. This follows the GCGRA’s ongoing work to establish a robust regulatory framework since its inception in 2023.

Novomatic, now authorised to provide land-based gaming services in the UAE, commented on the licence in a statement released on 10 April. The company expressed its intent to support licensed operators within the region.

“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,” said Stefan Krenn, Novomatic executive board member.

The Game LLC Partners with Xpoint for Geolocation Technology

Meanwhile, The Game LLC – the UAE’s sole licensed lottery operator – has selected Xpoint to provide geolocation services that ensure compliance with strict geographical restrictions. Access to lottery products will be limited to approved zones within the UAE.

“This collaboration supports The Game’s commitment to providing a secure and compliant lottery experience nationwide,” Xpoint stated in a 7 April release.

Bishop Woosley, director of lottery operations at The Game LLC, said:

“Engaging with Xpoint ensures that the UAE Lottery meets the country’s stringent data requirements. The supplier will utilise a private cloud to ensure all data remains on UAE soil. This aligns with local regulations and will ensure the highest level of data security.”

Xpoint has also been granted a vendor licence by the UAE regulator.

EQL Games Enters UAE Market

Kentucky-based EQL Games has become the latest supplier to be awarded a gaming-related vendor licence by the GCGRA, receiving approval on 10 April. Known for its suite of lottery-focused solutions, EQL Games aims to bring premium gaming content to the UAE’s regulated platforms.

“Securing this licence marks a significant step for EQL Games as we continue our mission to bring innovative, secure and responsible lottery solutions to markets worldwide,” said Brad Cummings, CEO of EQL Games.

A Growing Gambling Landscape

These developments come as the UAE prepares for the introduction of commercial land-based gambling. Wynn Resorts, which was awarded the nation’s first commercial gaming licence, completed a $2.4 billion funding round for its Al Marjan Island resort in February. The resort, first announced in 2020, is expected to cost around $5.1 billion upon completion.

The UAE’s regulated gambling market continues to evolve with strategic partnerships, licensing activity, and substantial investment in infrastructure – marking a significant transformation in the region’s gaming and lottery landscape.