International Game Technology (IGT) has officially entered the United Arab Emirates’ regulated gaming industry as the latest supplier to receive a license from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). This approval places IGT Global Services Limited among the growing list of international vendors cleared to operate in the region.
According toGCGRA records, IGT now holds a Tier 1 Gaming Related Vendor License, a designation that permits it to supply products and services to licensed operators within the UAE. The company joins other major players such as Novomatic and Aristocrat, which received their licenses in the previous months.
Momentum Builds in UAE’s Emerging Gaming Sector
The UAE’s legal gaming sector, still in its early stages, has been developing rapidly since 2022, when Wynn Resorts revealed plans for a $2 billion integrated resort on Al Marjan Island. That project has since received $2.4 billion in funding and has catalyzed broader regulatory efforts in the country.
The GCGRA’s vendor licensing program has gained pace in recent months. Aristocrat Interactive becamethe first supplier to be officially licensed by the authority, followed by Novomatic. IGT is now the third slot machine supplier to join the marketplace, and the seventh gaming vendor overall approved by the regulator. Other companies already granted licenses include EQL Games, Smartplay International, Xpoint, and PayBy.
Unlike past announcements, IGT’s inclusion did not come with a formal press release but was confirmed through its listing on the GCGRA’s official licensee registry.
Partnership with New Jersey Highlights Regulatory Strategy
Alongside these licensing developments, the GCGRA has also taken steps to bolster its regulatory framework. Last week, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), aiming to exchange knowledge and align standards across jurisdictions.
The agreement focuses on mutual priorities such as cybersecurity, consumer protection, and the regulation of both land-based and online gaming platforms.
Kevin Mullally, CEO of the GCGRA, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Commercial gaming is a cornerstone of our vision for diversified economic growth, significantly contributing to tourism and foreign investment.” He added that collaborating with New Jersey aligns the UAE with cutting-edge regulatory practices and supports the authority’s goal of becoming a premier global destination for gaming.
Echoing that sentiment, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy stated: “The GCGRA’s ambitious vision for gaming aligns with New Jersey’s role as an international leader in the industry. This collaboration… will drive innovation, strengthen consumer protections, and enhance economic opportunities in both regions.”
MaryJo Flaherty, interim director at the DGE, also commented on the partnership: “As a pioneer in gaming regulation, DGE is excited to partner with the GCGRA to share expertise in technological advancements, cybersecurity, and responsible gaming initiatives.”
What’s Next for the UAE Market?
The latest wave of vendor approvals and international partnerships signals a clear intention by the UAE to build a well-regulated, modern gaming industry. With high-profile names like IGT, Novomatic, and Aristocrat already entering the space, and technical standards being developed through collaborations like the one with the DGE, the foundation is being laid for long-term growth.
As new vendors are added and strategic agreements continue to be formed, the UAE is positioning itself as an emerging hub for licensed, responsible gaming in the region.
Source:
IGT granted UAE vendor license by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, Asia Gaming Brief, May 6, 2025