Light & Wonder Inc, a global provider of gaming technology and content, announced that it has received a gaming-related vendor licence from the United Arab Emirates’ General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). The licence allows the company to offer land-based electronic gaming machines, table games and related equipment, as well as online iGaming content, to licensed operators in the country.
This licence makes Light & Wonder the 13th industry supplier to receive approval from the GCGRA, which oversees all commercial gaming activity across the country.
Entry into a new regulated market
Matt Wilson, President and CEO of Light & Wonder, said: “Securing a licence from the GCGRA is an important milestone for Light & Wonder as we enter one of the most anticipated new regulated markets in the world.”
He added, “We’re honoured to be among the first approved suppliers and are committed to bringing our trusted, responsible and player-first approach to the UAE.”
The its “ongoing commitment to working collaboratively with regulators to ensure safe, secure, and responsible gaming experiences.”
Building a trusted ecosystem
Light & Wonder joins a growing list of major international suppliers that have received similar licences, including Aristocrat, International Game Technology (IGT), Novomatic, TCSJOHNHUXLEY, Scientific Games, Fennica Gaming and Random State. Several payment platform providers have also been approved.
The GCGRA began issuing gaming-related vendor licences in October 2024, as the UAE took steps to build a regulated and responsible gaming environment.
So far, the only confirmed land-based 바카라 project in the UAE is Wynn Al Marjan Island, a large resort under construction in Ras Al Khaimah. This is a joint venture between Wynn Resorts and local partners and is expected to open in 2027.
The first gaming licence in the UAE was granted to The Game LLC in July 2024. Wynn Resorts received its land-based operator licence in October 2024, even though construction on its resort had already started.
Industry support for UAE’s regulatory model
Light & Wonder’s licence comes at a time when confidence is growing in the UAE’s gaming regulatory framework. In a recent exclusive interview with SiGMA World, Bishop Woosley, Director of Lottery Operations at The Game, shared his views on how the regulatory system has developed since 2024.
“The regulatory landscape has evolved since The Game received the first licence in 2024. What we’ve seen is continued support by the GCGRA to establish and build a robust, transparent, and globally benchmarked framework one that supports innovation while prioritising player protection and operational integrity,” said Woosley.
He added that this approach reflects growing confidence in the sector and in the UAE’s ability to regulate it responsibly.
Strengthening global presence
The UAE is becoming an important gaming market with strong rules and international standards. Light & Wonder’s approval shows that the country is attracting well-known gaming companies that want to grow in new regulated markets.
As a leading global games supplier, Light & Wonder’s licence adds to efforts to create a safe and responsible gaming system in the UAE. The company will provide gaming content and technology to support licensed operators.
This approval also helps Light & Wonder grow its presence around the world and supports the UAE’s goal of creating a strong and well-regulated gaming industry.
