Play971, the first licensed sports betting and iGaming operator in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), launched its football betting service for local users this week. This development comes as an extension of its initial iGaming services launched last November. Managed by Coin Technology Projects LLC, part of the Momentum Group, the company is also responsible for The UAE Lottery. This new platform, which went live on Thursday, marks the first time UAE residents have legal access to international sporting events for wagering. It caters to international residents in the UAE aged 21 and older through the website Play971.ae. Although the site is available throughout the country, there is potential for geo-blocking in specific emirates if regulatory changes occur.
In addition to international sports events, Play971’s offerings include locally focused markets, featuring regional football and horse racing. The site also provides casino-style games and live-dealer tables, broadcasted from an Abu Dhabi-based studio licensed by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
Philippa Bowland, the commercial director for iGaming at Play971, emphasized the platform’s design as “fan first,” tailored to enhance the experience for sports enthusiasts. She highlighted that the platform allows fans to engage with sports sustainably and share significant football moments. The operator plans to introduce additional features such as match and player markets, tournament-themed games, and promotions aimed at fans.
The UAE’s gambling sector has seen increased activity, with numerous online and physical vendors receiving licenses over the past year. In October, the Yolo Group, a crypto-betting operator, obtained two gaming-related vendor licenses from the GCGRA, enabling it to provide iGaming content within the UAE’s regulated market. Additionally, land-based gambling is evolving, with Wynn Resorts developing the $5.1 billion integrated resort on Al Marjan Island. Although construction was halted in February due to geopolitical tensions, the resort is still expected to open in 2027.
The introduction of legal sports betting platforms such as Play971 signifies a shift in the UAE’s approach to gambling regulation, potentially influencing market dynamics and operators’ strategies. As these developments unfold, stakeholders will need to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and adapt to potential restrictions and opportunities.
Looking forward, the timeline for the implementation of additional features and market responses remains a focal point for industry observers. Regulatory reviews and compliance will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of gambling in the UAE.
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