The United Arab Emirates has launched its first federally licensed national lottery, marking a significant milestone as the only country in the Arabian Peninsula to offer fully legal lottery gaming.

Tickets for the UAE Lottery went on sale on Tuesday, featuring a grand prize of 100 million dirham (US$27.2 million). The inaugural draw is scheduled for December 14, with tickets available through the official lottery website.

Unlike previous small-scale lotteries that operated in legal grey areas and primarily targeted non-Muslim expatriates, the UAE Lottery is open to all residents regardless of nationality. This inclusive approach is notable given that gambling is traditionally forbidden in Islamic teachings.

The launch represents a strategic move in the UAE's economic diversification efforts. In September 2023, the government established the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which awarded the lottery contract to Abu Dhabi-based The Game LLC in July.

This development coincides with Wynn Resorts' plans to build a $5.1 billion integrated resort, Wynn Al Marjan Island, scheduled to open in 2027. If casino gambling is legalized, the UAE's substantial wealth could potentially position it to surpass Singapore in gambling revenues.

While gambling beyond the lottery remains illegal in the UAE, this initiative signals a potential shift in the country's approach to gaming activities, balancing traditional values with economic development goals. The UAE continues to navigate between its role as a modern global business hub and its cultural heritage, with the lottery serving as a testing ground for possible future gaming expansions.

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