A new partnership between New Jersey and the United Arab Emirates aims to set a global standard for innovation and regulation in the gaming sector. On April 30, 2025, Governor Phil Murphy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), forming a collaborative framework to drive technological advancement, cybersecurity, and responsible gaming initiatives. The agreement was formalized during New Jersey’s economic mission to the Gulf Arab States, with facilitation by Choose New Jersey.
Joint Vision for Modern Gaming Regulation
The MOU unites two major gaming authorities: New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) and the UAE’s GCGRA. This collaboration focuses on knowledge sharing in areas such as cybersecurity protocols, innovations in consumer protection, and responsible gambling technologies.
Governor Murphy highlighted the importance of international alliances in enhancing the gaming experience and expanding economic ties. “New Jersey’s role as a national leader and international destination for gaming is strengthened by global partnerships that drive innovation in an industry where consumers seek exciting experiences,” Murphy stated. “The collaboration between the DGE and GCGRA will strengthen our international economy while prioritising responsible gaming.”
MaryJo Flaherty, Interim Director of the DGE, emphasized the significance of this cooperation. “As one of the longest-standing gaming authorities in the United States and throughout the world, DGE looks forward to its cooperative relationship with GCGRA as it continues to proceed with its gaming regulation implementation in a number of important areas, including technological innovations, gaming enhancements and initiatives, and cybersecurity practices and protections,” she said.
UAE Sees Gaming as Economic Driver
The UAE, through the GCGRA, is positioning commercial gaming as a crucial component of its broader economic diversification plans. Kevin Mullally, CEO of the GCGRA, stated, “Commercial gaming is a key pillar of the UAE’s strategy for diversified economic growth, playing a role in driving tourism and attracting foreign investment. This moment represents a unique opportunity to align innovative technology with modern, collaborative regulation to unlock economic potential while ensuring the highest standards of consumer protection.”
The UAE gaming has seen considerable movement in this sector over the past year. According to data from Dubai Casinos, casino-related searches surged by 28%, and the GCGRA has already issued six gaming licenses. Key licensees include The Game LLC, operator of the UAE Lottery, and Wynn Al Marjan, the group behind the nation’s first integrated casino resort. Although online gambling has not yet been legalized, its growing popularity signals a potential shift in regulations as early as 2025.
Driving Growth in New Jersey’s Gaming Industry
Governor Murphy’s administration has overseen notable growth in the state’s gaming market, particularly online. Since he assumed office, overall gaming revenues have more than doubled, bolstering New Jersey’s position as a top U.S. gaming jurisdiction. The MOU with the UAE is expected to enhance that growth by enabling New Jersey to benefit from shared expertise and cutting-edge regulatory strategies.
Wesley Mathews, CEO of Choose New Jersey, underscored the broader implications of the agreement: “New Jersey and the UAE are global players in the gaming industry, offering unique experiences for consumers while increasing economic opportunity in a rapidly growing industry. This MOU will advance New Jersey’s gaming infrastructure and technology ecosystem, securing the state’s international competitiveness in this key sector.”
Institutional Commitment to Integrity and Oversight
The DGE remains a cornerstone of gaming oversight in New Jersey, responsible for technological vetting, licensing, and enforcement. It works in tandem with the New Jersey State Police and Division of Criminal Justice to maintain operational integrity in the industry. The GCGRA, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, serves as the UAE’s exclusive federal regulatory body for commercial gaming, focused on maintaining ethical and sustainable industry standards.
By aligning with the UAE, New Jersey not only reinforces its regulatory leadership but also positions itself at the forefront of international cooperation in gaming. The partnership could influence future developments in both jurisdictions, particularly in technology and responsible gaming policies.
Source:
ICYMI: Governor Murphy, New Jersey, and UAE Gaming Regulator Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Gaming Industry, nj.gov, April 30, 2025
