Upstart UAE Lottery continues development with WLA membership
The World Lottery Association (WLA) has announced the UAE Lottery as its latest member, following the latter’s official launch last year.
Operated by The Game and licenced by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the UAE Lottery now marks a significant milestone in its international presence, with the membership offering collaboration with over 150 lotteries and more than 70 associated suppliers, along with access to a framework that supports operational efficiency.
GCGRA CEO, Kevin Mullally, said: “As the internationally recognised body representing the interests of state-authorised lotteries and state-licensed sports betting operators, the WLA is dedicated to advancing integrity, security, and responsible gaming practices across the global regulated lottery and sports betting sector.
“The UAE Lottery’s acceptance as a member highlights the effectiveness of our efforts to facilitate the development of a commercial regulated gaming sector specifically tailored for the UAE, while positioning the country as a proactive contributor to the WLA’s global collaboration initiatives.”
Stricter circumstances
As of July 2024, the UAE Lottery stands as the first federally licensed lottery in the Emirates and the inaugural operation of its kind across the Gulf region.
This region traditionally avoided gambling-related offerings for both cultural and religious reasons. Therefore, a sanctioned lottery marked a major policy and evolution in how games of chance are managed.
However, the UAE Lottery is not accessible from other Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar or Kuwait, where gambling laws are even more restrictive.
“Becoming a WLA member is a proud milestone for The UAE Lottery, which is committed to operational excellence, innovation in player experience, and advancing the regional regulated gaming sector,” added Bishop Woosley, Director of Lottery Operations at The Game LLC.
“We are focused on delivering a world-class lottery experience within the Gulf region, while remaining aligned with the values the WLA upholds.”
Earlier this month, the UAE Lottery launched a new daily draw game which now offers players in the country the opportunity to win up to AED 2,500 (£500) each day from a AED 5 (£1) entry fee.
https://www.world-lotteries.org/
https://lotterydaily.com/2025/06/26/regulation/uae-lottery-wla-member/