Arena Racing Company Secures Regulatory Approval to Enter UAE Gaming Market

Arena Racing Company (ARC) has obtained official authorization to operate as a gaming-related vendor in the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant milestone for the company’s international expansion. The approval, granted by the General Commercial Gaming Authority (GCGRA), permits ARC to provide its racing-focused solutions to operators who are themselves licensed by the UAE regulator, opening the door for the company to establish a presence in a newly regulated market.

Central to ARC’s offering is its flagship platform, Racing1 Markets, which combines horse and greyhound racing into a unified solution tailored for regulated environments. The platform was developed in collaboration with media and technology partners including 1/ST CONTENT, Racecourse Media Group, and Tabcorp. With the GCGRA’s authorization, Racing1 Markets can now be introduced to the UAE, fully compliant with local regulatory requirements.

Jack Whitaker, Commercial Manager at Arena Racing Company, described the license as a major achievement. “Obtaining this license is a great achievement for ARC and its Racing1 partners,” he said. “The emerging regulated UAE market is incredibly exciting, and we look forward to showcasing our innovative products and services in the region.”

Historically, commercial gambling has been prohibited in the UAE, though authorities have explored the sector’s potential as a complement to tourism. These discussions culminated in the establishment of the GCGRA in 2023, tasked with overseeing all licensing and regulatory activities related to gaming. While restrictions remain, the country operates a state-run lottery and has awarded a casino license to Wynn Resorts for a Ras al Khaimah resort scheduled to open in 2027.

ARC’s vendor approval forms part of a broader initiative by the GCGRA to license companies connected to the gaming industry, positioning ARC among the early entrants into a market that is only beginning to take shape. The license not only validates the company’s expertise and platform capabilities but also provides an opportunity to extend its geographic footprint. By gaining regulatory approval, ARC can now engage directly with the UAE’s emerging gaming sector, supporting the development of a regulated environment under federal oversight while advancing its own strategic growth objectives.

By fLEXI tEAM