What happens to existing accounts and will e-wallet credit balances be refunded? All your questions answered
UAE’s two most popular gaming and raffles draw operators have put their activities on hold. Mahzooz and Emirates Draw said the pause from January 1, 2024, is temporary but did not specify when the games would resume.
Here is all you need to know.
Emirates Draw said the temporary pause from January 1, 2024, will help it return with an “enhanced gaming experience soon”.
Mahzooz updated its FAQ, where it revealed that “no draws will be held after December 30, 2023, until further notice from the regulators”. Emirates Draw has paused the sale of tickets in the UAE after December 31.
Customers can request the withdrawal of any remaining account balance.
Existing accounts will remain active even during the pause. “Any balance you have will be secure until we resume operations or until you decide to withdraw it,” Emirates Draw said, adding that certain features like creating new accounts, buying tickets or adding credits will be paused.
Every prize, whether small or big, can be withdrawn and paid in full.
Mahzooz said it is looking forward to resuming the draws “soon” – mostly likely in the first quarter of 2024 once it gets the go-ahead from the regulators. “We genuinely appreciate your understanding during this short break.”
Emirates Draw said it will provide detailed information through official channels “at the appropriate time”.
The GCGRA was established as a federal authority to introduce a regulatory framework for a national lottery and commercial gaming, state news agency Wam reported in September. Tasked with creating a “socially responsible” gaming environment, the authority is to ensure that all participants “adhere to strict guidelines and comply with the highest standards”. Among its mandates are to coordinate regulatory activities, manage licensing and unlock the economic potential of commercial gaming responsibly.
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