Play971, the UAE's first licensed online operator, launched its horse racing betting service in June 2026. The platform operates under the oversight of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
Momentum, the company behind Play971, previously introduced its iGaming proposition in November 2025. The subsequent addition of sports wagering establishes a regulated commercial gaming market in a region where horse racing holds significant cultural value. The launch provides a legal framework for fan engagement that was previously unavailable in the United Arab Emirates.
Regulatory Framework and Compliance
Philippa Bowland, commercial director for iGaming at Play971, notes that the project required building a platform without a local precedent. "Launching the UAE’s first and only licensed sports wagering and iGaming platform has been a significant undertaking," Bowland states. "Beyond the platform itself, we were establishing an entirely new category of regulated entertainment."
The platform relies on locally licensed payment providers and gaming content certified by Gaming Laboratories International (GLI). Bowland explains that every decision, from player onboarding to content localization, was constructed to align with the GCGRA framework. The company emphasizes consumer protection and independent testing as core components of the service.
Market Education
Educating users on the benefits of regulation remains a priority for the operator. "Commercial gaming is a new and formally regulated category in this market," Bowland adds. The platform aims to clarify the meaning of a licensed environment for players navigating this new entertainment sector.
Horse racing has long been a central part of Gulf culture, supported by substantial investment and international events. The introduction of legal wagering complements the existing sporting infrastructure in the region.