Novomatic receives gaming license in the Emirates
The Austrian gaming group Novomatic has taken a significant step toward the Middle East: This week, the company was granted an official B2B gaming license for the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The authorization comes from the state gaming regulator GCGRA, which was established only last year to regulate the Emirates' future gaming market. With the new license, Novomatic will be able to supply its land-based gaming devices, i.e., physical slot machines, to licensed operators in the region.
This is a true milestone for the group, as although there are currently no gaming venues in the Emirates, preparations for a massive gaming project are already in full swing. Early entry into this new market could prove to be a strategic advantage for Novomatic – not least because of the economic importance that gaming is likely to have in the region in the future.
First steps towards a casino era
Casinos in the United Arab Emirates are still more of a vision than a reality. But that is set to change by 2027 at the latest: The region's first major casino resort is currently being built on the artificially created island of Al Marjan in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The multi-billion dollar project is being operated by US industry giant Wynn Resorts and is intended to usher in a new era of tourism in the Gulf region. The UAE Gaming Authority is already awarding licenses to selected companies – apparently with the goal of building a stable infrastructure for the future casino landscape. Novomatic now belongs to this exclusive circle and, as an experienced provider of land-based gaming systems, will be part of the next phase of expansion in international gaming.
Stefan Krenn, a member of the Novomatic Management Board, described the announcement as a "significant milestone" for the company. The license demonstrates Novomatic's strong commitment to product quality and responsible gaming. At the same time, he emphasized that the expansion into the Middle East is a logical step in the company's global growth strategy. The company sees great potential in the region and intends to work with local partners in the long term.
The Gambling Authority (GCGRA) has also awarded a lottery license. The contract was awarded to The Game LLC, the company that operates the first legal lottery in the United Arab Emirates. Additional licenses were awarded to payment service providers and geo-blocking technology providers, which ensure the secure operation of the lottery.
With each new license, the GCGRA further expands the regulated gaming market in the Emirates. The goal is to create a legal, controlled, and economically sound environment for providers and players. Consumer protection is a top priority. At the same time, new opportunities arise for the global gaming industry. Obtaining the license is a significant step for Novomatic. The company is strengthening its international position and securing influence in an emerging region. As a pioneer, the group benefits from early market entry. The United Arab Emirates could thus develop into one of the most exciting gaming markets in the world.
