Aristocrat secures first gaming vendor license in UAE

Aristocrat has become the first international gaming technology company to receive a license from the United Arab Emirates' General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), the Australian slot machines manufacturer announced on Monday. 

The license, categorized under "Gaming Related Vendor," allows Aristocrat to supply land-based electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and online gaming solutions to licensed commercial operators in the UAE. This marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s ongoing efforts to develop a regulated commercial gaming sector as part of broader economic diversification plans.

Established in September last year, the GCGRA serves as the federal executive body responsible for overseeing and regulating the UAE's commercial gaming sector. In July, the authority issued its first national lottery license, initiating a move to include gaming as an entertainment offering within the country's economy.

“The license represents a pivotal step in the GCGRA’s efforts to develop a well-regulated commercial gaming sector in the UAE,” the authority said in a statement, underscoring the importance of creating a gaming market that balances entertainment value with responsible regulation.

Aristocrat is expected to bring premium content, hardware, and services to the UAE through the newly acquired license. "We are honored to be the first large, international technology provider to be awarded a gaming-related vendor license to serve the UAE market," said Hector Fernandez, CEO of Gaming for Aristocrat. “At Aristocrat, our vision is to deliver the best seat in the house wherever, and whenever the world plays.”

As the gaming sector takes shape under GCGRA's regulations, Aristocrat’s entry into the UAE is seen as a benchmark for future international companies looking to enter the market. The company says it will prioritize responsible gameplay and aims to adapt its offerings to align with the interests and preferences of players in the UAE.