First Legal Gaming Site in the UAE

UAE Issues Its First Online Gaming License

• The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has officially granted an Internet Gaming Licence to Coin Technology Projects LLC.
• Following the approval, Play 971 became accessible to UAE players in late November.
• Early reports suggest access is currently limited, pointing to a phased or pilot launch.

A Landmark Moment for UAE Players

Gambling was previously restricted in the UAE, but significant changes have recently been made. The first locally licensed casino was announced in late November, as GCGRA, the regulator, added Coin Technology LLC to the list of licensees.

Play971 is the operator’s website, and it’s incorporated in Abu Dhabi, at Twofour54 Yas Creative Hub. The UAE’s regulatory progress has prompted wider regional interest, and other GCC countries, like Bahrain, may follow a similar path with their gambling regulations.

The UAE’s decision to license and regulate the online market started with earlier decisions on physical establishments. In 2024, UAE players saw the launch of a lottery after The Game LLC received a permit to operate.

By late November, the first online casino joined the market. The operator has listed a variety of games, including bingo, online slots, and classic table games, such as baccarat, roulette, and blackjack. 

Coin Technology Projects LLC Named the Licence Holder

Coin Technology Projects LLC has emerged as a key participant in the newly regulated UAE gambling market. It holds a licence that ties it to the launch of the first online platform, Play971. With this accreditation, the company must follow strict regulations set by GCGRA to ensure player security.

The company shares an address with The Game LLC, an operator behind the UAE lottery. Although the companies operate independently, the launch of online casinos was influenced by the success of the lottery.

Play971 Goes Live for UAE Players

Play971 is more than just a gambling website for players. It’s the first regulated platform where visitors can wager on real money casino games. The casino section has online slots from OneTouch and a collection of live dealer games developed by Live88.

With a user-friendly design, the website is easy to navigate, featuring different sections with various game categories, like slots, table games, and live casino. This makes it easy for players to find their favourite games and genres. 

What Does This Mean for the UAE Gaming Market

The licence issued to the Coin Technology Projects LLC and its casino marks a change in the UAE’s approach to online gaming. For the first time, players can access a fully licensed online platform with consumer protection. The UAE is also setting a benchmark for GCC countries such as Bahrain, which may be considering the same approach.