Ewings, the company behind the popular Mahzooz lottery, has announced plans to launch new ventures despite not being granted a license to operate a national lottery in the UAE. The announcement came on Sunday, following news that The Game LLC had been officially recognized as the first licensed lottery operator in the country, Khaleej Times has reported. Ewings confirmed that the company is already developing alternative initiatives and “looks forward to sharing more detailed plans in the near future.”
“While we are disappointed by the government’s decision not to grant us a license, we respect the regulatory process and recognize the importance of setting clear standards for commercial gaming,” the company said in a statement. Ewings also stressed that it has maintained full employment for its employees throughout the period of uncertainty, pending an official decision on admission to the new market.
Mahzooz and Emirates Draw shut down after government demands
Both major players in the UAE lottery market — Mahzooz and Emirates Draw — were forced to shut down in early 2024 at the request of the government, which began the process of fully regulating the lottery industry through a specially created body, GCGRA. Both companies went through the application process for an official license, but only The Game LLC was granted the right to run a national lottery.
In a statement, Ewings noted that the company had been officially informed of the rejection of its application. “We accept this decision with respect, although, of course, we are disappointed. For seven months, we have maintained a full team, hoping for a positive outcome,” the company commented. However, Ewings confirmed that it has no intention of leaving the industry and is already working on new products that will meet the updated industry standards.
UAE lottery market enters new phase of development
Following the establishment of a new body — the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) — the UAE has introduced a new regulatory framework covering all aspects of the commercial gaming industry. The aim of the new rules is to protect consumers, ensure transparency, and increase trust in the market. The Game LLC, according to its official website, offers “a diverse range of games, including lottery products that meet different player interests and financial needs.”
Despite the closure of operations, Ewings recalled Mahzooz’s significant achievements, which remain part of the history of the country’s lottery development. “In three years of operation, we have held 161 draws, created 66 millionaires, awarded over 500 million dirhams in prizes and served over two million players,” the company notes. In addition, the statement specifically emphasizes that Mahzooz has repeatedly directed funds to social projects in the fields of health, education, ecology, and has also actively supported charitable organizations throughout the country. Ewings does not rule out a return to the UAE gambling market in the future – as soon as a new window of opportunity appears.