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Compliance Updates

Dubai Authorities: The Emirate Won’t Legalize Gambling

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Dubai Authorities: The Emirate Won’t Legalize Gambling
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Unfortunately for all gambling lovers, Dubai senior tourism official Issam Kazim stated that legalizing gambling in Dubai isn’t something the Emirate has in its foreseeing plans. This statement follows after months of speculations in the public that the United Arab Emirates would be considering opening up to gambling to compete against Saudi Arabia.

Even though Dubai is an Emirate where most casino-linked hotels are built, gambling is still illegal in the eye of the law. 

This means that resorts such as the luxury five-star beachfront hotel and resort located on Bluewaters Island in Dubai, owned by the Caesars Palace magnate, don’t give their casino services in Dubai. The same goes for the MGM resort, which, even though it’s still in construction, has made clear that will also only have to provide hospitality services. 

Meanwhile, the Wynn Resorts’ project in neighboring Ras Al Khaimah, one of the United Arab seven emirates, is preparing to open its doors to gambling. So, can players from Dubai enjoy gaming in this resort, or are there other alternatives?

Wynn Resorts to Open in Ras Al Khaimah

One of the most famous hotel resorts stationed in Nevada has taken its first step into opening up a division in one of the seven UAE – Ras Al Khaimah. The predictions for this resort are that it will be even bigger and more luxurious than the one in Las Vegas. 

The idea for this endeavor is based on the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect spot to create this resort. The CEO, Craig Billins, said, “Given that it’s a man-made island without any existing development, it’s an incredibly flexible location on which to plan.”

Announced in early 2022, the Wynn Resorts is expected to be developed by around 2026. It will have more than 1,000 rooms, a shopping mall, a spa, restaurants, lounges, and even a gaming room.

Up to this point, Wynn Resorts have provided casino services to all customers. However, considering the strict gambling laws in the region of UAE, there are still speculations about whether this resort will open its doors to gaming enthusiasts from Dubai. 

Billings noted that the region is a “tremendous non-gaming leisure and luxury market”, so presenting a casino that would be operating on its own can be a real challenge. In January 2022, the Emirate and Wynn both acquired a license to allow gaming, but there was no specification on whether this included gambling. 

Nonetheless, Billings noted that all of these issues would be addressed in 2023 and onwards. 

Online Gambling as an Alternative

Dubai is a country that operates under Islamic rules, which is why gambling is illegal. Having in mind that in Islam, gambling is considered a sin, all countries of this region have placed strict regulations and punishments concerning this matter. 

However, there are still some exceptions. For example, in Dubai, horse racing is allowed; even the biggest horse race tournament – Dubai World Cup – takes place here. When it comes to gambling, brick-and-mortar casinos, as well as online operators that are stationed in Dubai, fall under these strict laws. 

But, when it comes to online gaming at offshore sites, the situation is different, as playing here may be possible. Setting the ethical norms aside, the legal framework doesn’t extend to this section, meaning that the laws can’t have the same restrictions on foreign-based operators that allow players from Dubai. You can visit Arabic Casinos and find the best Arabic casino sites where players from Dubai can enjoy the thrill of online gaming. 

Is There a Place for Gambling in Dubai’s Future?

Dubai senior tourism official Issam Kazim’s statement that Dubai won’t legalize gambling disappointed many gambling enthusiasts. However, not all hope is lost for those that want to enjoy the thrill of gaming. 

Although it is still unclear whether players from Dubai can spin the reels in the Wynn Resort that is set to open in 2026 in Ras Al Khaimah, there are some available alternatives in the form of online gaming. 

Plenty of online offshore casinos accept players from Dubai as their customers, giving them the same privileges as all other players. What is left to see is whether Dubai is willing to completely open its doors to gambling.

Some speculate that the Wynn Resort will push forward the whole UAE region to more leniency towards this matter, considering the tourism it attracts. This, in turn, will cause Dubai officials to change their minds on such a decision.

 

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Compliance Updates

Danish Gambling Authority Opens Applications for Land-based Bingo Licences

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The Danish Gambling Authority has officially opened applications for land-based bingo licences under the country’s new regulatory framework.

The licences will be valid from 1 January 2025 for applicants who meet the required conditions and submit complete applications by 10 December 2024.

This development provides opportunities for operators to offer land-based bingo within a regulated environment.

To assist prospective applicants, the Danish Gambling Authority has created a dedicated “Land-Based Bingo” webpage. Here, operators can access application materials, guidelines and instructions to ensure submissions are completed accurately.

Operators seeking a licence valid from 1 January 2025 must submit their applications by the 10 December deadline. Applications that meet all requirements will be processed in time for the start date.

In cases where additional information or conditions are needed, the authority may issue licences with specific stipulations, granting operators additional time to address outstanding issues.

To support industry stakeholders, the Danish Gambling Authority will host an information meeting about the new land-based bingo rules on 5 December 2024. The session will take place at Englandsgade 25, Odense, and interested parties are encouraged to register by 29 November 2024.

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Compliance Updates

CT Interactive announces certification of new games for the Italian market

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CT Interactive announces certification of new games for the Italian market
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CT Interactive is thrilled to announce that new titles have officially received certification for the Italian market, ready to bring a fresh wave of entertainment to players across the country. This certification ensures that the games adhere to Italy’s stringent regulatory standards for fairness, security, and quality, reinforcing CT Interactive’s dedication to providing top-tier gaming experiences.

The newly certified games include: 5x Cherry PartyChristmas StormJester JackLucky KiwiMega GnomePiggy CrashStar GirlThe Big ChilliThe New Queen of FruitsTreasure Chase.

These exciting games offer a diverse range of themes, from the festive charm of Christmas Storm to the whimsical adventures of Piggy Crash and Mega Gnome. Whether players are in the mood for the nostalgic appeal of a classic fruit slot like The New Queen of Fruits, or looking for thrilling treasure hunts in Treasure Chase, there’s something for every type of player.

Each game has been developed with a focus on delivering engaging features, rewarding bonuses, and immersive gameplay. With unique mechanics and visually striking graphics, these releases are designed to captivate Italian players and keep them returning for more.

CT Interactive remains committed to enhancing the Italian gaming landscape by consistently providing fresh, exciting content and introducing new ways to play.

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Compliance Updates

MGA Marks Safer Gambling Week by Hosting Focus Group on Addressing Problem Gambling

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As part of Safer Gambling Week, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has launched the first in a series of focus groups aimed at addressing problem gambling and its effects on Maltese communities.

Bringing together key stakeholders such as Caritas Malta, Aġenzija Sedqa, the OASI Foundation and the Responsible Gaming Foundation, the session explored a self-assessment tool that the Authority is currently developing, grounded in recent research and industry trends.

The self-assessment tool, which will be available both in English and in Maltese, will guide individuals through a set of questions to help them identify whether gambling is causing harm in their lives. Based on the user’s responses, the tool will provide personalised recommendations and direct them to appropriate support services.

With invaluable input from organisations experienced in supporting individuals affected by problem gambling, the tool will undergo further refinement to maximise its effectiveness and relevance.

Clinical Chair at Aġenzija Sedqa, Anna Maria Vella, hailed the focus group as a “welcome initiative” which brought together a multidisciplinary team of experts.

“Working together and not in silos is always beneficial. We learn from each other to be more effective.”

Louis Bellizzi, Secretary of Caritas’ Foundation for Victims of Usury, said: “The MGA is in a unique position to coordinate the national effort to help alleviate the scourge of gambling addictions.”

In recent years, the Authority has taken significant steps to promote safer gambling practices, ranging from regular supervisory reviews on responsible gambling to enforcing stricter regulations.

The MGA closely monitors operators’ implementation of behavioural monitoring systems, self-exclusion systems and responsible marketing practices.

With a focus on high-risk areas, the Authority is refining its supervisory approach to be more dynamic and data-driven, ensuring responsible gambling practices are maintained and continuously improved to protect players effectively.

The MGA’s efforts align closely with the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA)’s initiative to establish a unified European standard for identifying markers of harm. The MGA is actively engaged in this initiative, working closely with fellow regulators and industry experts to create a comprehensive standard aimed at early identification of behaviours indicative of problem gambling.

The Authority’s proactive involvement in such initiatives underscores its dedication to fostering a responsible and transparent gaming sector, both locally and across Europe.

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