National Lottery Operator Prominent raffle operators in the UAE, Mahzooz, and Emirates Draw, have officially submitted bids for the coveted national lottery license with the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). Both operators have confirmed the completion of their application processes and shared that the regulatory authorities are meticulously evaluating candidates to select the most suitable operator for the national lottery license.
Temporary Operational Halts Following Regulatory Directives
Following directives from the UAE’s Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), a federal entity established in September, both Emirates Draw and Mahzooz temporarily suspended their operations from January 1, 2024. The move is aligned with the regulatory framework, and it emphasizes a pivotal shift in the UAE’s gaming landscape.
Sole National Lottery Operator in the Horizon: National Lottery Operator
In accordance with GCGRA directives, the UAE is expected to have only one national lottery operator. The license for this exclusive role is anticipated to be awarded by GCGRA within the first quarter of 2024. Both Mahzooz and Emirates Draw have acknowledged this transition and have applied for the national lottery license.
Competing for Distinction: Insights from Emirates Draw and Mahzooz
Suzan Kazzi, Head of Communications at Ewings (operator of Mahzooz), confirmed that both companies have submitted their applications for the national lottery license. Paul Chader, Head of Commercial at Emirates Draw, expressed optimism, citing their substantial track record, diversified game portfolio, and commitment to safety as factors that make them strong contenders.
Emirates Draw’s Noteworthy Contributions and Aspirations
Emirates Draw has distributed over Dh168 million in prizes to more than 800,000 winners in less than three years. Chader highlighted their diverse portfolio, secure IT infrastructure, and internationally recognized machines as attributes that position them as strong candidates for the National Lottery License. The company aspires to continue its significant impact on the gaming landscape.
Mahzooz’s Proven Track Record and Commitment to Excellence
Mahzooz, with its application process completed in January 2024, emphasized its track record of changing lives through exemplary performance over the past three years. Ewings, the operator, has created 66 millionaires and awarded over Dh500 million to more than 2 million winners globally. Kazzi underscored Mahzooz’s existing customer base, infrastructure, and a team of international experts with over 127 years of combined experience as valuable assets.
Ongoing Operations by Other Raffle Platforms
While Mahzooz and Emirates Draw are on temporary hiatus, other raffle platforms such as Dubai Duty Free and Big Ticket Abu Dhabi continue their operations. Winners continue to be crowned, and participants can purchase tickets for upcoming draws through online platforms.
Conclusion: Transition Period and Ongoing Opportunities for Participants
As the UAE undergoes this shift towards a single national lottery operator, Mahzooz and Emirates Draw eagerly await the GCGRA’s decision. Meanwhile, participants can still engage with other raffle platforms, as they continue to offer opportunities for winnings and new millionaires.
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