{"id":127737,"date":"2026-06-05T17:04:48","date_gmt":"2026-06-05T15:04:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/"},"modified":"2026-06-05T17:04:48","modified_gmt":"2026-06-05T15:04:48","slug":"play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/","title":{"rendered":"Play971 Approved as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in UAE"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Play971 Launches as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in the UAE \u2013 Federal Regulator Expands Controlled iGaming Market<\/p>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"key-takeaways\" title=\"Key Takeaways\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Play971 has been approved as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the United Arab Emirates.<\/li><li>The operator, Coin Technology Projects LLC, received both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering licences from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority.<\/li><li>Play971 is currently the only online gambling brand listed by the UAE regulator.<\/li><li>The approval represents the 19th licence issued by the GCGRA since its establishment in September 2023.<\/li><li>All licensed operators must comply with strict responsible gambling, player protection, and anti-money laundering requirements.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"first-federally-licensed-online-sportsbook-in-the-uae\" title=\"First Federally Licensed Online Sportsbook in the UAE\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First Federally Licensed Online Sportsbook in the UAE<\/h2>\n\n<p>Play971 has been formally approved as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the United Arab Emirates. The brand is operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, a company that is part of the Abu Dhabi based Momentum Group.<\/p>\n\n<p>The operator received two separate licences from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, known as the GCGRA. These licences cover both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering. With this approval, Play971 is currently the only brand listed by the federal regulator as authorised to provide online gambling services in the country.<\/p>\n\n<p>The launch comes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the platform already offering a range of sports betting markets to customers located in the UAE.<\/p>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"scope-of-the-gcgra-licensing-framework\" title=\"Scope of the GCGRA Licensing Framework\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scope of the GCGRA Licensing Framework<\/h2>\n\n<p>The GCGRA was established in September 2023 and oversees commercial gaming activities under a federal regulatory structure. Since its formation, the authority has issued 19 licences. Most of these approvals have related to land based projects rather than online operations.<\/p>\n\n<p>Under the regulatory framework, an Internet Gaming licence allows the offering of games of chance, skill, or a combination of both via websites and mobile applications. This category includes online slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, poker, bingo, fantasy games, peer to peer gaming, and esports products.<\/p>\n\n<p>A Sports Wagering licence permits operators to accept bets on the outcome or performance of sporting events. Covered sports include football, horse racing, cricket, basketball, and tennis. Such betting activities can only be legally offered through operators that hold a GCGRA licence.<\/p>\n\n<p>Current licence recipients also include The Game, identified as the UAE national lottery, and the integrated resort development of Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah.<\/p>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"platform-offering-and-market-positioning\" title=\"Platform Offering and Market Positioning\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Platform Offering and Market Positioning<\/h2>\n\n<p>Play971 is accessible through mobile and desktop browsers. The sportsbook offers betting markets on major international sports and leagues, as well as regional competitions including UAE football and horse racing.<\/p>\n\n<p>In addition to sports betting, the platform provides online casino games, proprietary Play971 titles, and live dealer products. According to the information released, live dealer games are streamed from a GCGRA licensed studio located in Abu Dhabi.<\/p>\n\n<p>Momentum Group has stated that its focus is on developing locally relevant gaming products while maintaining strict responsible gambling controls. The company positions Play971 as a locally rooted platform operating under federal oversight.<\/p>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"compliance-player-protection-and-age-restrictions\" title=\"Compliance, Player Protection, and Age Restrictions\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compliance, Player Protection, and Age Restrictions<\/h2>\n\n<p>All GCGRA licensees are subject to detailed regulatory requirements. The authority mandates strict authorisation of key management, both corporate and individual. This includes extensive due diligence on directors and executive officers within a gaming entity\u2019s ownership structure.<\/p>\n\n<p>Licensed betting brands are restricted to customers aged 21 and over. Operators must comply with rules covering responsible gambling measures, player protection standards, privacy safeguards, and anti money laundering controls.<\/p>\n\n<p>The GCGRA has also indicated that it will apply strict monitoring to unlicensed operators targeting UAE consumers from overseas. The regulator has signalled that consumer protection will be a priority as the market develops.<\/p>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"pending-tax-structure-for-the-regulated-market\" title=\"Pending Tax Structure for the Regulated Market\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pending Tax Structure for the Regulated Market<\/h2>\n\n<p>While the licensing framework is in place, the UAE has not yet confirmed the tax structure that will apply to its regulated gaming market. Industry proposals referenced in connection with the framework point to a tiered Gross Gaming Revenue model.<\/p>\n\n<p>Under these proposals, mass market operators could face a 25 percent tax rate, while premium gaming operators could be subject to an 8 percent levy. No final decision has been publicly confirmed.<\/p>\n\n<p>The clarification of taxation will be a relevant factor for operators assessing long term participation in the UAE market, as well as for users monitoring pricing structures and product availability.<\/p>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"implications-for-uae-sports-bettors-and-online-casino-users\" title=\"Implications for UAE Sports Bettors and Online Casino Users\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Implications for UAE Sports Bettors and Online Casino Users<\/h2>\n\n<p>With Play971 now live, customers in the UAE can place sports bets and access online casino products through a federally licensed domestic operator. For users, this marks the first instance of a locally regulated online sportsbook operating under formal oversight.<\/p>\n\n<p>The regulatory model places online gambling within a structured federal system, with defined licensing categories and compliance obligations. For comparison platform users evaluating providers in the region, the GCGRA licence status now serves as a key indicator of legal authorisation within the UAE.<\/p>\n\n<p>The timing of the launch ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is notable, as international football tournaments traditionally drive higher betting activity. However, all activity must take place within the boundaries set by the regulator.<\/p>\n\n<span class=\"anchor\" id=\"our-assessment\" title=\"Our Assessment\"><\/span><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our Assessment<\/h2>\n\n<p>The approval of Play971 as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the UAE represents a formal expansion of the country\u2019s regulated commercial gaming framework into the online segment. The issuance of both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering licences establishes a clear legal pathway for digital betting services under federal supervision. With compliance requirements, age restrictions, and oversight mechanisms defined by the GCGRA, the launch introduces a controlled online gambling option for users within the UAE while further developing the country\u2019s broader commercial gaming market.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"gambling-disclaimer\">\n\t<p>\n\t\tWe have imposed strict editorial guidelines on ourselves and explain our testing methods openly and comprehensively. We also communicate transparently how our work is financed. This site may contain tracking links, but this does not influence our objective view in any way.\t<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Play971 has been approved as the first licensed online sportsbook in the United Arab Emirates. The platform operates under dual GCGRA licences for internet gaming and sports wagering.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":127735,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"news_crypto_coin":[],"class_list":["post-127737","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail"],"acf":{"faqs":null,"sort_number":999,"sort_number_no_override":false},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.0 (Yoast SEO v27.0) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Play971 Becomes First Licensed UAE Sportsbook<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Play971 becomes the first GCGRA licensed online sportsbook in the UAE, offering internet gaming and sports wagering under federal oversight.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Kryptocasinos.com EN\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Play971 becomes the first GCGRA licensed online sportsbook in the UAE, offering internet gaming and sports wagering under federal oversight.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Kryptocasinos.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/kryptocasinoscomm\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-06-05T15:04:48+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1408\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"736\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Isabella Brown\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Isabella Brown\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"NewsArticle\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Isabella Brown\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/badee6a5ed8b6777da5bd380d112bcdc\"},\"headline\":\"Play971 Approved as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in UAE\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-05T17:04:48+02:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/\"},\"wordCount\":930,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#respond\"]}],\"description\":\"\",\"isAccessibleForFree\":true,\"articleBody\":\"Play971 Launches as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in the UAE - Federal Regulator Expands Controlled iGaming Market\\n\\nKey Takeaways\\n\\nPlay971 has been approved as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the United Arab Emirates.The operator, Coin Technology Projects LLC, received both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering licences from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority.Play971 is currently the only online gambling brand listed by the UAE regulator.The approval represents the 19th licence issued by the GCGRA since its establishment in September 2023.All licensed operators must comply with strict responsible gambling, player protection, and anti-money laundering requirements.\\n\\nFirst Federally Licensed Online Sportsbook in the UAE\\n\\nPlay971 has been formally approved as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the United Arab Emirates. The brand is operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, a company that is part of the Abu Dhabi based Momentum Group.\\n\\nThe operator received two separate licences from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, known as the GCGRA. These licences cover both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering. With this approval, Play971 is currently the only brand listed by the federal regulator as authorised to provide online gambling services in the country.\\n\\nThe launch comes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the platform already offering a range of sports betting markets to customers located in the UAE.\\n\\nScope of the GCGRA Licensing Framework\\n\\nThe GCGRA was established in September 2023 and oversees commercial gaming activities under a federal regulatory structure. Since its formation, the authority has issued 19 licences. Most of these approvals have related to land based projects rather than online operations.\\n\\nUnder the regulatory framework, an Internet Gaming licence allows the offering of games of chance, skill, or a combination of both via websites and mobile applications. This category includes online slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, poker, bingo, fantasy games, peer to peer gaming, and esports products.\\n\\nA Sports Wagering licence permits operators to accept bets on the outcome or performance of sporting events. Covered sports include football, horse racing, cricket, basketball, and tennis. Such betting activities can only be legally offered through operators that hold a GCGRA licence.\\n\\nCurrent licence recipients also include The Game, identified as the UAE national lottery, and the integrated resort development of Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah.\\n\\nPlatform Offering and Market Positioning\\n\\nPlay971 is accessible through mobile and desktop browsers. The sportsbook offers betting markets on major international sports and leagues, as well as regional competitions including UAE football and horse racing.\\n\\nIn addition to sports betting, the platform provides online casino games, proprietary Play971 titles, and live dealer products. According to the information released, live dealer games are streamed from a GCGRA licensed studio located in Abu Dhabi.\\n\\nMomentum Group has stated that its focus is on developing locally relevant gaming products while maintaining strict responsible gambling controls. The company positions Play971 as a locally rooted platform operating under federal oversight.\\n\\nCompliance, Player Protection, and Age Restrictions\\n\\nAll GCGRA licensees are subject to detailed regulatory requirements. The authority mandates strict authorisation of key management, both corporate and individual. This includes extensive due diligence on directors and executive officers within a gaming entity's ownership structure.\\n\\nLicensed betting brands are restricted to customers aged 21 and over. Operators must comply with rules covering responsible gambling measures, player protection standards, privacy safeguards, and anti money laundering controls.\\n\\nThe GCGRA has also indicated that it will apply strict monitoring to unlicensed operators targeting UAE consumers from overseas. The regulator has signalled that consumer protection will be a priority as the market develops.\\n\\nPending Tax Structure for the Regulated Market\\n\\nWhile the licensing framework is in place, the UAE has not yet confirmed the tax structure that will apply to its regulated gaming market. Industry proposals referenced in connection with the framework point to a tiered Gross Gaming Revenue model.\\n\\nUnder these proposals, mass market operators could face a 25 percent tax rate, while premium gaming operators could be subject to an 8 percent levy. No final decision has been publicly confirmed.\\n\\nThe clarification of taxation will be a relevant factor for operators assessing long term participation in the UAE market, as well as for users monitoring pricing structures and product availability.\\n\\nImplications for UAE Sports Bettors and Online Casino Users\\n\\nWith Play971 now live, customers in the UAE can place sports bets and access online casino products through a federally licensed domestic operator. For users, this marks the first instance of a locally regulated online sportsbook operating under formal oversight.\\n\\nThe regulatory model places online gambling within a structured federal system, with defined licensing categories and compliance obligations. For comparison platform users evaluating providers in the region, the GCGRA licence status now serves as a key indicator of legal authorisation within the UAE.\\n\\nThe timing of the launch ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is notable, as international football tournaments traditionally drive higher betting activity. However, all activity must take place within the boundaries set by the regulator.\\n\\nOur Assessment\\n\\nThe approval of Play971 as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the UAE represents a formal expansion of the country's regulated commercial gaming framework into the online segment. The issuance of both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering licences establishes a clear legal pathway for digital betting services under federal supervision. With compliance requirements, age restrictions, and oversight mechanisms defined by the GCGRA, the launch introduces a controlled online gambling option for users within the UAE while further developing the country's broader commercial gaming market.\\n\\n\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/\",\"name\":\"Play971 Becomes First Licensed UAE Sportsbook\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-05T17:04:48+02:00\",\"description\":\"Play971 becomes the first GCGRA licensed online sportsbook in the UAE, offering internet gaming and sports wagering under federal oversight.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg\",\"width\":1408,\"height\":736,\"caption\":\"Government building with UAE flag, official license certificate sealed, shield with checkmark badge in foreground\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Play971 Approved as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in UAE\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/\",\"name\":\"Kryptocasinos.com\",\"description\":\"\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Kryptocasinos.com\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/kryptocasinos-com-logo.svg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/kryptocasinos-com-logo.svg\",\"width\":109,\"height\":34,\"caption\":\"Kryptocasinos.com\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/kryptocasinoscomm\/\"],\"description\":\"Explore the best crypto casinos for %%currentyear%%. Compare top Bitcoin gambling sites by payouts, bonuses, KYC, and supported coins, with hands-on testing.\",\"address\":{\"@type\":\"PostalAddress\",\"streetAddress\":\"557 Fuk Wing St\",\"addressLocality\":\"Cheung Sha Wan\",\"addressRegion\":\"HK\",\"postalCode\":\"999077\",\"addressCountry\":\"CN\"},\"contactPoint\":{\"@type\":\"ContactPoint\",\"email\":\"contact@kryptocasinos.com\"},\"foundingDate\":\"2021-03-27\",\"email\":\"hello@kryptocasinos.com\",\"numberOfEmployees\":{\"@type\":\"QuantitativeValue\",\"minValue\":\"11\",\"maxValue\":\"50\"},\"publishingPrinciples\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/editorial-guidelines\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/badee6a5ed8b6777da5bd380d112bcdc\",\"name\":\"Isabella Brown\",\"description\":\"Online Gambling, Greece and my dog Gringo are my three favorite things in my life. Before working for Kryptocasinos.com I was leading the content team of an iGaming Online magazine where I was focused on researching casinos, their licenses and the connection between the members of the industry.\",\"birthDate\":\"1995-02-13\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/author\/isabella\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Play971 Becomes First Licensed UAE Sportsbook","description":"Play971 becomes the first GCGRA licensed online sportsbook in the UAE, offering internet gaming and sports wagering under federal oversight.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/","og_type":"article","og_title":"Kryptocasinos.com EN","og_description":"Play971 becomes the first GCGRA licensed online sportsbook in the UAE, offering internet gaming and sports wagering under federal oversight.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/","og_site_name":"Kryptocasinos.com","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/kryptocasinoscomm\/","article_published_time":"2026-06-05T15:04:48+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1408,"height":736,"url":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Isabella Brown","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Isabella Brown","Est. reading time":"5 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"NewsArticle","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/"},"author":{"name":"Isabella Brown","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/badee6a5ed8b6777da5bd380d112bcdc"},"headline":"Play971 Approved as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in UAE","datePublished":"2026-06-05T17:04:48+02:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/"},"wordCount":930,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg","inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#respond"]}],"description":"","isAccessibleForFree":true,"articleBody":"Play971 Launches as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in the UAE - Federal Regulator Expands Controlled iGaming Market\n\nKey Takeaways\n\nPlay971 has been approved as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the United Arab Emirates.The operator, Coin Technology Projects LLC, received both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering licences from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority.Play971 is currently the only online gambling brand listed by the UAE regulator.The approval represents the 19th licence issued by the GCGRA since its establishment in September 2023.All licensed operators must comply with strict responsible gambling, player protection, and anti-money laundering requirements.\n\nFirst Federally Licensed Online Sportsbook in the UAE\n\nPlay971 has been formally approved as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the United Arab Emirates. The brand is operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, a company that is part of the Abu Dhabi based Momentum Group.\n\nThe operator received two separate licences from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, known as the GCGRA. These licences cover both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering. With this approval, Play971 is currently the only brand listed by the federal regulator as authorised to provide online gambling services in the country.\n\nThe launch comes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the platform already offering a range of sports betting markets to customers located in the UAE.\n\nScope of the GCGRA Licensing Framework\n\nThe GCGRA was established in September 2023 and oversees commercial gaming activities under a federal regulatory structure. Since its formation, the authority has issued 19 licences. Most of these approvals have related to land based projects rather than online operations.\n\nUnder the regulatory framework, an Internet Gaming licence allows the offering of games of chance, skill, or a combination of both via websites and mobile applications. This category includes online slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, poker, bingo, fantasy games, peer to peer gaming, and esports products.\n\nA Sports Wagering licence permits operators to accept bets on the outcome or performance of sporting events. Covered sports include football, horse racing, cricket, basketball, and tennis. Such betting activities can only be legally offered through operators that hold a GCGRA licence.\n\nCurrent licence recipients also include The Game, identified as the UAE national lottery, and the integrated resort development of Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah.\n\nPlatform Offering and Market Positioning\n\nPlay971 is accessible through mobile and desktop browsers. The sportsbook offers betting markets on major international sports and leagues, as well as regional competitions including UAE football and horse racing.\n\nIn addition to sports betting, the platform provides online casino games, proprietary Play971 titles, and live dealer products. According to the information released, live dealer games are streamed from a GCGRA licensed studio located in Abu Dhabi.\n\nMomentum Group has stated that its focus is on developing locally relevant gaming products while maintaining strict responsible gambling controls. The company positions Play971 as a locally rooted platform operating under federal oversight.\n\nCompliance, Player Protection, and Age Restrictions\n\nAll GCGRA licensees are subject to detailed regulatory requirements. The authority mandates strict authorisation of key management, both corporate and individual. This includes extensive due diligence on directors and executive officers within a gaming entity's ownership structure.\n\nLicensed betting brands are restricted to customers aged 21 and over. Operators must comply with rules covering responsible gambling measures, player protection standards, privacy safeguards, and anti money laundering controls.\n\nThe GCGRA has also indicated that it will apply strict monitoring to unlicensed operators targeting UAE consumers from overseas. The regulator has signalled that consumer protection will be a priority as the market develops.\n\nPending Tax Structure for the Regulated Market\n\nWhile the licensing framework is in place, the UAE has not yet confirmed the tax structure that will apply to its regulated gaming market. Industry proposals referenced in connection with the framework point to a tiered Gross Gaming Revenue model.\n\nUnder these proposals, mass market operators could face a 25 percent tax rate, while premium gaming operators could be subject to an 8 percent levy. No final decision has been publicly confirmed.\n\nThe clarification of taxation will be a relevant factor for operators assessing long term participation in the UAE market, as well as for users monitoring pricing structures and product availability.\n\nImplications for UAE Sports Bettors and Online Casino Users\n\nWith Play971 now live, customers in the UAE can place sports bets and access online casino products through a federally licensed domestic operator. For users, this marks the first instance of a locally regulated online sportsbook operating under formal oversight.\n\nThe regulatory model places online gambling within a structured federal system, with defined licensing categories and compliance obligations. For comparison platform users evaluating providers in the region, the GCGRA licence status now serves as a key indicator of legal authorisation within the UAE.\n\nThe timing of the launch ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is notable, as international football tournaments traditionally drive higher betting activity. However, all activity must take place within the boundaries set by the regulator.\n\nOur Assessment\n\nThe approval of Play971 as the first licensed online sportsbook and iGaming platform in the UAE represents a formal expansion of the country's regulated commercial gaming framework into the online segment. The issuance of both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering licences establishes a clear legal pathway for digital betting services under federal supervision. With compliance requirements, age restrictions, and oversight mechanisms defined by the GCGRA, the launch introduces a controlled online gambling option for users within the UAE while further developing the country's broader commercial gaming market.\n\n"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/","url":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/","name":"Play971 Becomes First Licensed UAE Sportsbook","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg","datePublished":"2026-06-05T17:04:48+02:00","description":"Play971 becomes the first GCGRA licensed online sportsbook in the UAE, offering internet gaming and sports wagering under federal oversight.","inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga.jpg","width":1408,"height":736,"caption":"Government building with UAE flag, official license certificate sealed, shield with checkmark badge in foreground"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/news\/play971-first-licensed-online-sportsbook-uae-gcgga\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Play971 Approved as First Licensed Online Sportsbook in UAE"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/","name":"Kryptocasinos.com","description":"","inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#organization","name":"Kryptocasinos.com","url":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/kryptocasinos-com-logo.svg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/kryptocasinos-com-logo.svg","width":109,"height":34,"caption":"Kryptocasinos.com"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kryptocasinos.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/kryptocasinoscomm\/"],"description":"Explore the best crypto casinos for %%currentyear%%. 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