The UAE’s commercial gaming sector has reached a major milestone. Play971, the country’s first licensed internet gaming and sports wagering platform, is now live.
Operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, this Abu Dhabi-based platform holds official licences from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) for both online casino games and sports betting.
What Is Play971?
Play971 is a UAE-licensed website offering two categories of commercial gaming:
Internet Gaming – Online casino games including slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, craps, poker, bingo, eSports, fantasy games, and skill-based games.
Sports Wagering – Betting on sports events including football, basketball, cricket, tennis, horse racing, and other competitions.
The platform is operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, registered in Abu Dhabi with offices at Twofour54, Yas Creative Hub. The company appears on the official GCGRA licensee list under both internet gaming and sports wagering categories.
This marks the 19th licence issued by the GCGRA since its establishment in September 2023, and the first covering online gambling and sports betting.
Who Can Use Play971?
The platform has strict eligibility requirements:
Age Requirement – Users must be at least 21 years old.
Location Restriction – Users must be physically located within the UAE to register, deposit funds, or play games.
Geographic Exclusions – Certain “sensitive geographic areas” within the UAE are blocked, as determined by the GCGRA.
VPN Prohibition – Using virtual private networks or other methods to hide location or identity is banned. Winnings will not be paid if these conditions are breached.
Financial Eligibility – The platform includes financial criteria for registration, though specific thresholds haven’t been publicly detailed.
What Games Are Available?
According to the GCGRA’s definitions, licensed internet gaming platforms can offer:
- Bingo
- Casino games (slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, craps, poker)
- eSports betting
- Fantasy sports
- Peer-to-peer games
- Skill-based games
Sports wagering covers betting on outcomes of sporting events, athlete performance, or team results across sports like football, basketball, cricket, tennis, and horse racing.
How Does This Fit UAE Gaming Regulations?
The GCGRA has built a comprehensive framework governing all commercial gaming in the UAE. Only licensed operators can legally offer gaming services.
Currently licensed operations include:
- UAE Lottery – Operated by The Game LLC (first lottery licence, July 2024)
- Land-based Gaming – Wynn Al Marjan in Ras Al Khaimah (first casino resort licence, October 2024)
- Internet Gaming & Sports Wagering – Play971 (first online gaming licence)
- Gaming Vendors – 16 additional licences for gaming equipment and service providers
Anyone participating in unlicensed gaming activities faces penalties under UAE law.
For background on UAE gambling regulations and the GCGRA framework, see our detailed guide.
Responsible Gaming Measures
Play971 states it is committed to keeping gaming recreational. The platform provides:
- Player controls for managing activity
- Underage gaming safeguards
- Access to external support services, including Takalam (online mental health platform)
These measures align with GCGRA requirements for all licensed operators. The UAE Lottery implements similar protections, reflecting industry-wide standards for responsible gaming.
What’s Next for UAE Gaming?
The licensing of Play971 follows a clear expansion trajectory for UAE gaming:
2023 – GCGRA established as federal regulator
2024 – UAE Lottery launched, Wynn Al Marjan received casino resort licence
2025 – First internet gaming and sports wagering licences issued
2027 – Wynn Al Marjan Island resort opening with land-based casino facilities
The UAE gaming market is projected to reach AED 11-18 billion, with both online and land-based operations contributing to growth.
Key Takeaway
Play971 is the UAE’s first GCGRA-licensed platform for sports betting and online casino games. Users must be 21+, physically located in the UAE, and cannot use VPNs. The platform joins the UAE Lottery and upcoming Wynn Al Marjan resort as part of the country’s regulated commercial gaming sector, with strict controls on eligibility, location verification, and responsible gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online gambling now legal in the UAE?
Yes, but only through GCGRA-licensed platforms. Play971 is currently the only licensed operator for internet gaming and sports wagering. Participating in unlicensed gambling remains illegal.
Can tourists use Play971?
The platform requires users to be physically located in the UAE. Whether tourists can register depends on meeting age (21+) and verification requirements. The terms specify UAE location, not residency.
What age do you need to be to use Play971?
Users must be at least 21 years old to register, deposit funds, or play any games on the platform.
Can I use a VPN to access Play971 from outside the UAE?
No. The platform explicitly prohibits VPNs and other methods to conceal location. Violating this condition means winnings will not be paid.
What sports can you bet on through Play971?
Sports wagering covers various competitions including football, basketball, cricket, tennis, horse racing, and other sporting events where outcomes involve athletes or team performance.
How many gaming licences has the GCGRA issued?
As of December 2025, the GCGRA has issued 19 licences total. This includes one lottery licence (The Game LLC), one land-based gaming facility licence (Wynn Al Marjan), one internet gaming/sports wagering licence (Play971), and 16 vendor licences.
JobXDubai 
Leave a comment