Good Morning. Slow and steady wins the race. For Dubai, a cautious approach towards commercial gambling is aimed at future-proofing the industry and ensuring that a highly-regulated approach benefits both punters and operators, eliminating the grey and black market. Seamless integration between online services and physical experiences will be expected from customers, with a digital-first approach being taken. Looking to the Philippines, Emerald Bay has seen the final nail in its coffin, as the nation’s gaming regulator revoked its provisional casino license, causing any current or future efforts for partnership to crumble, leaving a concrete shell of what was hoped to be a shining IR in Cebu.
What you need to know
- Dubai focuses on a “regulation-first” approach to gambling, giving digital the priority to eliminate future complications, says a senior legal counsel.
- PAGCOR has revoked PH Resorts’ provisional Mactan casino license, prompting the group to abandon partnership talks for Emerald Bay.
On the radar
- Cebu City bans physical and online ads promoting gambling.
- Transfer of L’Arc Hotel unit to SJM cleared by Macau government.
- Japan sees strong visitor growth in November despite China spat.
- Cambodia accuses Thailand of bombing near Poipet casino hub.
- Jumbo partner Brightstar wins Lotterywest gaming and digital contract.
AGB Intelligence
UAE
Cautious, digital-first approach to commercial gaming in Dubai
The UAE has been concisely studious in its approach to legalizing commercial gaming, gathering examples before implementing a firm strategy that can eliminate future complications. For Dubai, a digital-first approach means that it can test the water and ensure strict regulatory compliance, encouraging the use of legal platforms and pushing out grey market operators. Gaming is merely to act as an amenity, notes a senior legal expert, and punters are expecting seamless integration between online services and physical experiences.
Industry Updates
- Konami’s BOMBERMAN slots make world premiere at Graton Resort & Casino.
- BetConstruct AI introduces ‘The Choice’ via the new Special Bets module.
- QTech Games ramps up its portfolio with Million Games integration.
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