UAE raffles and prize draws suspended from January 1

Players hoping to win the jackpot in any of the UAE’s raffles and draws will have to put their dreams on hold as operators were instructed to suspend business from Monday.

Previously, residents could earn from a few dirhams to Dh200 million from companies like Mahzooz, Emirates Draw, Big Ticket and Dubai Duty Free.

“In accordance with applicable commercial gaming regulations, Mahzooz will temporarily suspend operations effective January 1, 2024.”

the operator said.

“The pause is the result of an industry-wide mandate consistent with the regulators’ new role in creating a well-regulated gaming environment in the UAE.”

In September, the General Regulatory Authority for Commercial Gaming settled in the United Arab Emirates.

There is no set date for when the raffles will begin operating again.

Paul Chader, head of commercial Emirates DrawThey said they were “very happy” with the introduction of the GCGRA.

“We look forward to working with them to establish a well-regulated gaming environment in the UAE.”

he said.

“To this end, we will temporarily suspend our activities in the UAE from January 1, 2024, assuring all our customers that we will show our duty of care to protect all their outstanding prizes.”

Article 355 of UAE Law considers all forms of gambling as a criminal offense. It includes lotteries and punishments that could result in prison, fines, or both.

Some exceptions to lottery laws in the UAE have meant that some companies licensed by the Ministry of Economy have been allowed to hold raffles and prize draws.

News source: Gulf Insider