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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is rapidly becoming a focal point in the global gaming industry, as regulatory doors begin to open for carefully selected operators and suppliers. Among the latest developments, Austria-based Novomatic has secured a prestigious Tier 1 B2B gaming vendor licence, positioning itself among the first three gaming companies permitted to operate in the UAE. This milestone highlights both the exclusivity and the high strategic value of early entry into this emerging market.
The UAE's General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has issued one of its first B2B gaming vendor licences to Novomatic, granting the company permission to distribute its land-based gaming solutions across the country. This licence marks a critical step in Novomatic’s international expansion strategy and underscores the UAE's cautious but deliberate move towards a regulated gaming environment.
As of now, the nation’s gaming activity remains limited, with its first regulated state lottery launched only in November 2024. However, the real breakthrough came with Wynn Resorts receiving the country’s first full gaming licence for its ambitious development on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. Novomatic is expected to become a key supplier for this project, which is seen as a gateway for the UAE’s entrance into the global gaming scene.
“This honour reflects our unwavering commitment to offer the most innovative products fulfilling the highest standards of responsible gaming,” said Stefan Krenn, Member of the Executive Board of Novomatic AG. “Receiving this licence as one of the first gaming technology groups worldwide is a significant milestone for Novomatic. As we enter this exciting opportunity in the United Arab Emirates market, we successfully continue our international expansion strategy.”
Echoing this sentiment, Thomas Schmalzer, VP Global Sales and Product Management, emphasized Novomatic’s readiness to deliver premium gaming experiences: “Our latest gaming solutions are designed to deliver exceptional performance to land-based gaming facilities across the United Arab Emirates, ensuring that international players can enjoy their preferred games with the same high standards and quality they expect from other jurisdictions worldwide.”
Novomatic now joins an exclusive group that includes Aristocrat, which in October became the first company to receive a gaming-related vendor licence from the GCGRA. The UAE’s gaming landscape, though still in its infancy, is evolving rapidly. The regulatory infrastructure is beginning to support broader gaming operations, and the upcoming development projects like Wynn’s resort could serve as a model for further expansion.
Industry observers, including Gambling Insider, have already flagged the UAE as a key market to watch. With regulatory clarity increasing and strategic licences being issued to globally recognized brands, the groundwork is being laid for a thriving, well-regulated gaming sector in the Middle East.
Sources: Gambling Insider, iGaming Business
