The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has set up a federal entity to regulate gaming and has hired veterans of the US gambling industry to help lead it. 

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) will help the country set up its gambling industry and establish its debut casino resort， the Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah.

Ex-MGM Chairman and CEO Jim Murren has been appointed to the role of Chair and ex-VP of Government Relations and General Counsel for Gaming Laboratories， Kevin Mullally， has been appointed to the role of CEO at the GCGRA.

The Wynn Al Marjan Island is expected to cost a total of $3.9bn and is scheduled to open in 2027.

Speaking about the formation of the UAE gaming regulator， new GCGRA Chair，slots Murren commented: “I am delighted at the appointment of Kevin Mullally. He brings unparalleled category experience and will be invaluable in creating a fit-for-purpose regulatory framework for the UAE.”

The new UAE body stated that it would “create a socially responsible and well-regulated gaming environment， ensuring that all participants adhere to strict guidelines and comply with the highest standards”.

It added the organisation would “coordinate regulatory activities， manage licensing nationally and facilitate unlocking the economic potential of commercial gaming responsibly.”

Gambling Insider spoke with Murren back in 2019 as part of our CEO Special， click here to read (view pages 32-34).