Momentum, the operator responsible for the UAE’s sole licensed lottery, has expanded its footprint with the launch of two online gambling services: TrueWin and Dream Island. The rollout introduces full casino and sportsbook offerings to players in the Emirates, even though no formal legislative framework explicitly legalizing online gambling has been released to the public. Both platforms are already active and accessible, presenting a significant development in a market that has been moving gradually toward regulated gaming activity.
Two Platforms Offering Full Casino and Sports Betting Content
The platforms provide a wide catalogue of games and betting opportunities. Players can access live dealer tables, poker, roulette, and slot titles, along with wagering options across multiple sports such as football, tennis, cricket, basketball, and others. This represents one of the most extensive online gambling product selections currently available within the country.
Momentum’s preparations for these platforms appear to have been underway for some time. The company previously advertised for a commercial director for an online casino and sportsbook brand several months before this launch. Domain records also indicate long-term planning: TrueWin was registered in March 2023, while Dream Island’s registration dates back to 2020, both predating the establishment of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in September 2023.
Industry projections highlight the potential scale of revenue the UAE could achieve if gaming becomes fully regulated. Analysts estimate that gambling activity might ultimately reach the equivalent of 1.3% of national GDP, or around US$6.6 billion, a figure that exceeds the performance of established gaming hubs such as Singapore.
Momentum’s expansion arrives as other gaming-related projects continue to move forward. A major integrated resort by Wynn Resorts is progressing in Ras Al Khaimah, reflecting broader development goals within the Emirates. The regulator has also issued various operator and supplier licenses over the past two years, including those for major providers such as Aristocrat, Light & Wonder, IGT, Konami, and Sportradar.
A Shifting Regulatory Landscape
The legal status of online gambling in the UAE remains complex. While no publicly available law confirms a regulated online gambling framework, the GCGRA has been actively issuing permissions and listings connected to gaming operations. Another operator, Coin Technology Projects LLC, recently appeared on the GCGRA’s website, seemingly offering online gaming services through a platform named Play 971. Information suggests a link between this entity, Play 971, and Momentum.
Reports also indicate that the regulator may adopt a licensing model structured around one B2C online gaming licence per emirate, mirroring the approach expected for land-based casino licensing. This aligns with the broader trend of gradual but coordinated regulatory development across the country.
In a related update, GGRAsia reported that the TrueWin site is set to replace Dream Island entirely. Dream Island will “permanently close” on December 10, with users being redirected to TrueWin. This consolidation positions TrueWin as Momentum’s primary online platform moving forward.
Momentum’s presence is further connected through The Game LLC, the first company to receive a UAE lottery licence in July 2024. The Game LLC describes itself as part of Momentum Group, listing a base in Abu Dhabi.
Growing Industry Anticipation Amid Major Developments
The introduction of these platforms coincides with heightened expectations surrounding the future of gambling regulation in the UAE. The investment community views the current momentum—supported by major projects such as Wynn Al Marjan Island—as a signal of the Emirates’ long-term intentions. Wynn’s resort is approaching full structural height and is targeting a spring 2027 opening, marking the country’s anticipated debut into large-scale land-based casino operations.
The recent departure of Kevin Mullally from the GCGRA earlier this month adds another notable transition within the regulatory framework. Mullally had joined the authority in 2023, during its early development stage. As the environment continues to evolve, the introduction of TrueWin and Dream Island establishes Momentum as a major participant in what may become one of the region’s most significant new regulated markets.
Source:
Online betting and online casino platform launched in UAE: report, ggrasia.com, December 1, 2025.
