- Only GCGRA-licensed or authorised operators may offer lottery or gaming in the UAE.
- Unlicensed gambling remains a crime under the UAE Penal Code.
- The GCGRA has warned that advertisers who support unlicensed operators face sanctions.
- Age limits apply: 18+ for the lottery and 21+ for online betting.
lotter.ae is a powerful name, and it should be used responsibly. This checklist summarises the main public rules a buyer should know. It is general information, not legal advice. Please take advice from a UAE lawyer before launching any product.
1. Hold the right licence
The GCGRA regulates lotteries, internet gaming, sports wagering and land-based gaming. Offering any of these to people in the UAE requires a licence or authorisation from the regulator. Media, results and rewards sites that do not offer gaming themselves should still check which rules apply to their content and advertising.
2. Know the law on unlicensed gambling
Under Federal Decree-Law 31 of 2021 (the Penal Code), taking part in gambling can lead to up to two years in prison or a fine of up to AED 50,000. Running or organising gambling can lead to up to ten years in prison and a fine of at least AED 100,000. Licensed activity under the GCGRA is the lawful route.
3. Don’t promote unlicensed operators
In December 2024 the GCGRA warned the public against unlicensed lottery and gaming operators and said that advertisers and payment firms supporting them face sanctions. Any site on lotter.ae should link only to licensed or authorised operators.
4. Respect age limits
The UAE Lottery is for people aged 18 and over. The first licensed online sports and gaming site sets a minimum age of 21. Marketing should never target minors.
5. Build in responsible gaming
The UAE Lottery offers deposit limits, time-outs and self-exclusion of up to five years, and works with a mental health support service. A lotter.ae brand should make similar tools and messages easy to find.
A great name, used the right way.
lotter.ae is ready for a licensed, responsible brand.