The still relatively young gambling regulator in the UAE, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), has got a new Chief Executive Officer.
Ciarán Carruthers has been named the new CEO of GCGRA, the regulatory authority for the UAE’s emerging gambling and lotteries space, with the Middle Eastern country having launched a lottery back in 2024.
The UAE has been eyeing up an expansion of its betting and gaming industry to complement its existing and hugely valuable tourism sector. CGCRA is the key cog in emerging industry, implementing the country’s strict standards.
“We are pleased to welcome Ciarán to the GCGRA leadership team,” said Jim Murren, CGCRA Chairman.
“He brings the experience and vision to lead the Authority as we continue to build a world-class regulatory framework for commercial gaming in the UAE.”
Carruthers replaces Kevin Mullally as CEO of the CGCRA. Mullally has been Chief Executive since the regulator was created in 2023, and played a leading role in the formation of the UAE’s gaming and lotteries space so far.
As mentioned above, the UAE launched its first-ever state lottery in July 2024. The CGCRA awarded the contract to The Game, an Abu Dhabi gaming technology company, and in April 2026 launched its first ever lottery retail venue.
The CGCRA’s remit goes far beyond lotteries, however. Casino gaming and online sports betting are the other two core verticals of the UAE”s emerging gaming system, with Wynn Resorts constructing a casino resort in Ras Al-Khaimah.
The outbreak of major conflict in the Middle East earlier this year, which has struck the UAE on countless occasions, has led to some doubt about the future of the industry. However, it has not deterred key stakeholders, with Play971 becoming the country’s first licensed online sports betting company.
Commenting on his new position at CGCRA, Carruthers said: “I am honoured to join GCGRA and contribute to the continued development of the UAE’s regulatory framework for commercial gaming.
“The UAE is establishing itself as a global benchmark for modern and responsible gaming regulation, and I look forward to working closely with the team, licensees, and government partners to deliver on that ambition.”
