UAE Raffles and Draws Suspended from January 1

For those eager to try their luck in the UAE’s raffles and draws, as operators have been directed to suspend their activities starting Monday.

Previously, residents had the chance to win varying amounts, ranging from a few dirhams to Dh200 million, through platforms like Mahzooz, Emirates Draw, Big Ticket, and Dubai Duty Free.

“Mahzooz will temporarily pause operations from January 1st, 2024, in compliance with applicable commercial gaming regulations,” announced the operator. The industry-wide mandate aligns with regulators’ efforts to establish a well-regulated gaming environment in the United Arab Emirates, following the establishment of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority in September.

Expressing gratitude for the support received over the past three years, Mahzooz emphasized its commitment to transparency, responsibility, and integrity in gaming during the pause. However, no specific date has been provided for the resumption of raffle operations.

Under UAE law, Article No 355 deems all forms of gambling as criminal offenses, including lotteries, with potential penalties such as imprisonment, fines, or both.

While gambling is generally prohibited, some exceptions authorized under the Ministry of Economy have allowed certain companies to conduct raffles and prize draws within the UAE.