UAE’s First Regulated Lottery Launched with Dh100 Million Jackpot

The UAE’s first regulated lottery operation has officially been launched, offering a grand prize of Dh100 million in the inaugural ‘Lucky Day’ live draw scheduled for December 14. The lottery is operated by The Game LLC, an Abu Dhabi-based company licensed by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in July this year.

The UAE Lottery introduces a variety of games for residents aged 18 and above, with participation limited to those physically present in the UAE at the time of playing. Tickets are now available for purchase on the official website, theuaelottery.ae.

A standout feature of the lottery is the Dh100-million jackpot offered in the ‘Lucky Day’ game. In addition to the grand prize, seven ‘Lucky Chance IDs’ are guaranteed to win Dh100,000 each. Each entry costs Dh50, and participants have the option to choose their own numbers or use the ‘Easy Pick’ feature, which generates numbers randomly. Prizes range from Dh100 to Dh100 million, depending on the numbers matched.

Another offering includes scratch cards priced at various rates, allowing players to win up to Dh1 million. Cards priced at Dh5 provide a chance to win up to Dh50,000, Dh10 cards offer a top prize of Dh100,000, and Dh20 cards feature a top prize of Dh300,000. The Dh50 scratch cards provide an opportunity to win the maximum prize of Dh1 million.

Currently, prizes are not subject to any taxes. To participate, players must first create an account on the lottery’s website. Offline ticket sales are not yet available, but The Game has indicated plans to introduce this option in the future.

The UAE Lottery emphasizes safety, responsibility, and adherence to regulatory standards. Advanced technology and a team of global gaming experts are employed to ensure a secure and transparent lottery experience.

The lottery is part of the UAE’s newly regulated gaming sector, established under the GCGRA. Prior to its formation, multiple gaming and lottery companies operated in the UAE. These entities ceased operations at the start of 2024 and applied for the UAE lottery licence, which was awarded to The Game in July.

Bishop Woosley, Director of Lottery Operations at The Game, affirmed the company’s commitment to providing fair and responsible play. “We aim to create exciting experiences while promoting responsible play. Following a rigorous GCGRA evaluation, our team remains committed to ensuring that all operations meet global standards, guaranteeing fairness and transparency from the draw process to the selection of winners,” he said.

At the time of granting the licence, GCGRA Chairman Jim Murren stated that the initiative represents a significant step forward for the UAE’s gaming industry. “This move not only marks the establishment of a disciplined world-class regulatory framework for lottery activities but also underscores our commitment to nurturing a secure and enriched commercial gaming environment in the UAE,” Murren said.

The GCGRA has implemented a comprehensive regulatory framework to protect consumers and ensure compliance. It has also issued strict warnings about unlicensed gaming operations. “Engaging in, conducting, or facilitating commercial gaming activities within the UAE without approval from the GCGRA is illegal and exposes offenders to severe penalties. Playing as a consumer via unlicensed operators is also illegal, according to the GCGRA framework,” the authority stated.

By fLEXI tEAM