Dubai denies reports it has begun issuing licenses for gambling

Dubai issued a statement denying reports from social media that the emirates began to issue gambling licenses.

The Government of Dubai Media Office said reports about the gambling licenses are “incorrect.” They did not give any further details.

The UAE does not permit gambling, but the government allows some organizations to run competitions and raffles. It is only if they have express permission from the relevant regulatory bodies.

Unlike other Middle East countries, the UAE also has separate online gambling laws. Its Cyber Crimes Law sets out penalties for anyone operating an online gambling business.