The United Arab Emirates (UAE) could offer a casino license to each of its seven emirates, according to a report from Bloomberg. The latest development follows the establishment of UAE’s future gambling regulator, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in September.
UAE Could Surpass Singapore in Gaming Revenue
UAE could be home to a gaming market potentially bigger than Singapore, with the country projected to generate up to US$6.6 billion in annual gaming revenue, Bloomberg reported.
The granting of casino licenses will also allow all seven emirates to tap into the lucrative gaming market and boost their respective tourism industries.
However, it’s unclear at the moment whether all emirates would be open to the idea. So far, it’s only Ras Al Khaimah that has given the clearest indication yet of launching a casino, with Wynn Resorts set to develop a US$3.9 billion integrated resort with a gaming venue on Al Marjan Island which could open in 2027.
Casino Not A Priority for Dubai
Citing sources, Bloomberg reported that Dubai has put casino plans on the back burner. Legalized gambling is currently not a priority for senior government officials as the city’s tourism is doing well, according to individuals with knowledge of the matter.
