The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is rapidly laying the foundations for a technologically advanced gaming sector as it bids to become a key player in global entertainment.
The Emirates has already started issuing gaming licences to gambling operators. Coupled with several exciting developments in the technology space, the UAE gaming sector is set for lift-off.
The UAE Establishes a Regulated Gaming Industry
The UAE stunned the world when it changed its stance against gambling, establishing the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) to formulate regulations for the sector.
Wynn Resort received a license to operate a casino resort in Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah – a first for the usually conservative Middle Eastern giant.
Aristocrat also became the first international gaming company to collect a gaming-related vendor license from the GCGRA.
The company will supply land-based electronic gaming machines (EGMs) and online gaming solutions to Wynn and other operators.
Technology Providers Will Play a Key Role in Gaming Operations
Tech specialists will play important roles in the gaming industry, helping to improve security and user experience while ensuring operators stay compliant with the GCGRA framework.
Xpoint Technology and Smartplay International are among the companies which have been tasked with delivering geolocation and gaming equipment solutions.
The former have received a gaming-related vendor license from the GCGRA. UAE gaming operators will turn to them for geolocation services to stay in line with stipulated guidelines.
The UAE is keen on establishing a safe and secure gaming sector. The advanced tracking and verification technologies from Xpoint will help achieve this goal.
Trusted gaming operators already operating in the UAE, such as the MuchBetter Casino Online, are renowned for being safe and secure. Xpoint’s tools could enhance their platform.
Smartplay is another top player in the gaming industry. They have received approval to deliver their number-drawing systems to licensed gaming operators in the UAE.
Fintech Firms set to Benefit from the UAE’s New Gaming Framework
PayBy Technology Projects became the first financial technology (fintech) company to receive a gaming-related vendor license in the UAE.
The Astra Tech subsidiary provides digital wallets and secure payment gateways. They also ensure players can conduct safe and seamless transactions.
Besides improving security, fintech firms enhance the user experience. Players want to deposit and withdraw funds without going through complex processes.
The move to bring the fintech sector into the gaming space is designed to create a trustworthy environment with companies that can be held accountable.
Smart Infrastructure and AI will Influence UAE Gaming
The UAE is building a technologically advanced gaming industry embedded with smart infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI).
Machine learning algorithms study players to flag concerning behaviour and offer solutions such as wagering limits or self-exclusion. Tech specialists in AI will keep industry operators in line, ensuring they carry out their business ethically.
The UAE has also been building smart infrastructure for several years. These technologies will support the gaming industry.
Abu Dhabi and Dubai ranked as the smartest cities in the Middle East and North Africa region, per the Smart City Index 2021. Their high-speed internet, cloud computing and blockchain technology will significantly improve the gaming experience.
Wynn Al Marjan Island – The Catalyst for Gaming in the UAE
The Wynn Al Marjan resort in the UAE plans to open its gates in 2027.
Wynn has been pushing construction at an almost unbelievable pace as it strives to establishes the first resort to house a land-based casino in the UAE.
The mammoth project will have 1,542 rooms and luxury suites, immediately establishing the UAE as a gaming and entertainment centre.
The casino will run on ultra-modern gaming technology that immerses players in the experience. It will establish a blueprint for other luxury resorts to follow.
Wynn Al Marjan’s gaming technologies are provided by credible and renowned vendors which will ensure compliance with the GCGRA.
