Gambling in Dubai: Legal Shifts and the Rise of RAK Casino

Introduction to Gambling in Dubai

Historically, gambling has been prohibited in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Dubai, due to Islamic law, which influences both federal and local legislation. However, recent developments indicate a significant shift in this stance, particularly with the establishment of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in 2023.This federal body is tasked with overseeing all aspects of commercial gaming and gambling within the country, suggesting a move towards regulated gambling activities.

Is there any gambling in Dubai?

Under the UAE’s legal system, which combines civil and Sharia law, gambling is strictly prohibited. This prohibition extends to all forms of gambling, including casinos, online betting, and private betting activities. Engaging in such activities can lead to severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and potential deportation for foreign nationals.

Despite these stringent laws, the UAE has recently taken steps towards legalizing and regulating gambling. The GCGRA’s establishment marks the first federal initiative to regulate commercial gaming, including casinos, lotteries, and online gaming. This move aligns with broader economic diversification goals and the desire to boost tourism and foreign investment.

What is the penalty for gambling in UAE?

Gambling is governed in Articles 460 to 463 of Federal Law No. 31 of 2021 on Crimes and Penalties (“Criminal Code”), reproduced below.

In brief, legal penalties vary depending on the nature of the offence. For simple participation in gambling, imprisonment for up to 2 years and/or fines up to AED 50,000 (or higher) have been cited. For organizing or operating gambling venues (or online operators) the penalties increase significantly — up to 10 years imprisonment, substantial fines (e.g., over AED 100,000) and asset confiscation.

The relevant Articles of the Criminal Code are the following:

Article (460)

Gambling is a game whereby each of the parties thereto agrees – in case of losing – to pay to

the winner a certain sum of money or any other thing agreed upon.

Article (461)

Whoever gambles shall be punished with incarceration for a period not exceeding (2) two

years or a fine not exceeding (50,000) fifty thousand AED.

The penalty shall be incarceration or a fine if the crime is committed in a public place or a

place opened to the public or business premises or a house prepared and equipped for

gambling.

Article (462)

A penalty of temporary imprisonment for a period not exceeding (10) ten years and a fine

not less than (100,000) one hundred thousand AED shall be imposed on anyone who opens

or runs a place for gambling and prepares such a place for admission of people, and anyone

who organizes any game of gambling in a public place or a place opened for the public or in

any place or house prepared for such purpose.

Article (463)

In all cases, any money or tools which may have been used in gambling shall be seized and

confiscated. The court shall also order the closure of the premises or place designated for

gambling, and it may not be authorized to reopen unless it is designated for a lawful purpose

and after the approval of the Public Prosecution.

The Emergence of RAK Casino

In a groundbreaking development, Wynn Resorts has been awarded the UAE’s first commercial gaming license by the GCGRA. The company is developing a luxury resort on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), which will include a casino component. This project, known as Wynn Al Marjan Island, is scheduled to open in early 2027.

The resort will feature over 1,500 hotel rooms, a 224,000 square-foot casino, multiple dining and retail options, and convention facilities. It aims to position Ras Al Khaimah as a premier destination for luxury tourism and entertainment, attracting visitors from within the UAE and internationally.

This development marks a significant departure from the UAE’s traditional stance on gambling and could set a precedent for future projects in other emirates. However, it’s important to note that the casino will operate within a designated free zone in Ras Al Khaimah, and gambling remains illegal in other parts of the UAE, including Dubai.

Will gambling become legal in Dubai?

While Dubai currently maintains its ban on gambling, the developments in Ras Al Khaimah may influence future policies.The success of Wynn Al Marjan Island could prompt discussions about the potential benefits of regulated gambling in Dubai, including increased tourism, job creation, and economic diversification. However, any move towards legalizing gambling in Dubai would require careful consideration of cultural, religious, and legal factors.

For now, residents and visitors in Dubai must adhere to the existing laws, refraining from engaging in gambling activities.Those interested in experiencing gambling within the UAE will need to wait for the opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah or consider destinations abroad where gambling is permitted.

Can I gamble on my phone in Dubai?

Because online gambling is likewise prohibited, using a mobile device (phone or tablet) to access unlicensed gambling websites or apps is illegal and may expose the user to the same kinds of penalties as physical gambling. Moreover, internet service providers and regulatory authorities in the UAE actively block gambling-related websites.

Conclusion to Gambling in Dubai

The landscape of gambling in the UAE is undergoing significant changes, with Ras Al Khaimah leading the way with the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island resort. While Dubai continues to uphold its ban on gambling, the developments in neighboring Ras Al Khaimah may influence future discussions and policies. As the situation evolves, stakeholders in Dubai should stay informed about legal developments and be prepared to adapt to potential changes in the regulatory environment.

For more information on the regulatory framework and licensing processes, visit the official website of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority: www.gcgra.gov.ae.

We hope this post will help you and remain available for any questions regarding this post of general application.

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*The information on this page is not intended to be legal advice. This article is intended to provide an initial introduction to the key aspects of gambling in Dubai.