UAE Removes Gambling Provisions in New Civil Code Ahead of Gaming Regulations

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially eliminated provisions related to gambling and betting from its legal framework. This change comes with the introduction of the new Civil Transactions Law, established under Federal Decree-Law No. (25) of 2025, which will take effect on June 1, 2026. The revisions are particularly significant given the rapid growth of the UAE’s gaming market.

The provisions concerning gambling, which were outlined in Articles 1012 to 1021 of the previous Civil Transactions Law (Federal Law No. (5) of 1985), included rules addressing the invalidity of gambling contracts, restitution, and the recovery of losses. With the new civil code, these articles have not been carried forward, signaling a shift in the UAE’s regulatory approach.

Transition to a Specialized Gaming Regulatory Framework

The removal of gambling provisions may be part of the UAE government’s strategy to implement specialized regulations for the gaming industry. These regulations will be overseen by the newly established General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). By eliminating the previous legal ambiguities, the UAE aims to create a clearer and more stable legal environment for both existing and potential operators within the gaming sector.

The UAE government’s initiative aligns with its broader objective of ensuring coherence between general legal principles and specialized regulatory frameworks. This approach not only promotes clarity but also aims to prevent any duplication of legal provisions that might overlap with existing laws.

Further adjustments to the legal framework could be on the horizon. There may be limited amendments to other relevant laws, including the UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 31/2021 on the Issuance of the Crimes and Penalties Law and the Federal Decree-Law No. 34/2021 concerning the Fight Against Rumors and Cybercrime. These amendments would help harmonize regulations with those of the GCGRA.

Implications for the UAE Gaming Market

The repeal of the previous civil code’s gambling provisions represents a proactive step by the UAE government to bolster its gaming regime. By swiftly removing outdated regulations, the UAE is positioning itself as an attractive destination for gaming enterprises, investors, and tourists alike.

As the global gaming market continues to expand, the UAE’s regulatory changes may provide a competitive edge in attracting international operators. The focus on creating a robust legal structure indicates the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and responsible gaming environment.

In summary, the UAE’s removal of gambling provisions from its Civil Transactions Law marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to gaming regulation. With the establishment of the GCGRA and potential legislative adjustments, the UAE is poised to create a comprehensive framework that addresses the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.