UAE’s Mahzooz, Emirates Draw stop operations: Will past winners still get their money?

UAE’s Mahzooz, Emirates Draw stop operations: Will past winners still get their money?

Published: Mon 1 Jan 2024, 6:00 AM

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.

Why have raffles been put on hold? Will other companies follow suit?

The move is in line with the latest directives from the UAE Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) - a federal body set up in September. It was not immediately clear when other gaming companies will follow suit, although Mahzooz said this is an "industry-wide mandate" that "aligns with regulators' efforts to create a well-regulated gaming environment in the UAE".

Emirates Draw said the temporary pause from January 1, 2024, will help it return with an “enhanced gaming experience soon”.

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Have ticket sales been paused? When was the last draw for the two companies?

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.

Will there be any