The UAE Lottery, operated by The Game LLC under the regulation of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), has announced a significant partnership with Takalam, an AI-driven mental well-being platform, to introduce a robust Responsible Gaming Initiative. This collaboration aims to empower participants with tools and resources to manage their gaming habits responsibly while addressing mental health concerns in a confidential and supportive manner.
Comprehensive Support Services
The initiative includes a dedicated online platform that provides educational materials, videos, and unlimited free counselling and coaching sessions. This mini-site is designed to help participants make informed gaming decisions and cultivate healthy gaming habits, while also addressing mental well-being needs through accessible, user-friendly support.
James Boyles, Group Director for Responsible Gaming at The Game LLC, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are proud to work with Takalam to further our commitment to players’ well-being and responsible gaming. This partnership underscores our dedication to fostering a safe and supportive lottery environment.”
Khawla Hammad, Founder and CEO of Takalam, added: “This initiative highlights the importance of recognizing when gaming impacts mental well-being and offers support to help individuals regain balance. At Takalam, we aim to create a healthier environment where mental health support is accessible and destigmatized.”
Proactive Measures for Responsible Gaming
The UAE Lottery has implemented several safeguards to prevent harmful gaming behaviours. These measures include age restrictions, self-exclusion programs, awareness campaigns, and geo-fencing technology to ensure compliance with GCGRA regulations. These strategies work in tandem with the partnership's resources to identify and support at-risk individuals early.
This initiative builds on the UAE Lottery’s commitment to promoting responsible gaming following its launch in November 2024. The inaugural lottery featured a grand prize of AED 100 million ($27.2 million) and marked the country's first regulated lottery under the GCGRA’s oversight.
A Broader Vision for Mental Health in Gaming
The collaboration with Takalam is a step toward destigmatizing mental health challenges associated with gaming. Takalam’s AI-powered platform offers participants a safe space to address behavioural concerns confidentially, making it a vital resource for those seeking support.
By combining preventive measures with accessible mental health resources, the UAE Lottery and Takalam aim to foster a healthier and more balanced approach to gaming, setting a benchmark for responsible practices in the region’s burgeoning gaming industry.
Sources: Gambling Insider, Finance Middle East