Emirates Draw has announced plans for global expansion after ceasing its operations in the UAE. This decision comes following updated regulations from the UAE’s Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
“Emirates Draw fully respects and complies with the new guidelines issued by the UAE’s Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority. After the regulatory updates at the end of 2023, we halted our UAE operations and shifted focus to international markets. Today, we reach participants in over 175 countries,” said a spokesperson for Emirates Draw.
The company, under its parent organization Tycheros, also runs the popular ‘Little Draw,’ a raffle that gives participants three chances to win per ticket. Prizes of up to $272,257 are offered daily through this raffle.
Changes in UAE Lottery Operations
The GCGRA, established under Federal Law, has implemented a new framework to regulate lottery operations in the UAE. As part of this update, The Game LLC, operating as The UAE Lottery, has been granted the official license to conduct lottery operations under strict supervision.
However, all other lotteries have been ordered to stop operating immediately, except for two longstanding exceptions: Big Ticket and Dubai Duty Free, which are airport-based lotteries that have been running for almost three decades.
Emirates Draw’s Global Shift
Emirates Draw has now transformed into a fully digital global platform. “Our products are now accessible only in international markets. UAE residents can no longer access the Emirates Draw website or participate in the draws as the site is restricted in the UAE. Physical tickets are also unavailable in the country,” said the spokesperson.
For participants outside the UAE, Emirates Draw continues to operate online, offering its products and digital draws globally.
