Game on! Legal considerations for e-gaming in the UAE: legal framework
Etisalat launched the first cloud gaming service to promote e-gaming in the UAE. Online media content remains heavily regulated in UAE, but gambling is strictly forbidden in gaming. e.g. if any amount of money is involved, it could be construed as gambling.
Morgan Stanley report found five main types of convergence between gaming and gambling. They are introduction of gambling features into social media games, use of social gaming features on online gambling sites, consolidation of similar games on non-monetary sites and cross-marketing of online casinos to social casino players.
There are legal considerations for e-gaming in the UAE. They include introduction of gambling features into social media games and social gaming features on online gambling sites.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has implemented the Internet Access Management Regulatory Policy. The policy consists of certain frameworks and categories in regards to the internet. It is essential to keep in mind that the UAE is first and foremost a Muslim country governed by Islamic principles. Gambling is forbidden in the country. Those found gambling can be punished with up to two years of imprisonment or a fine of up. to Dhs20,000 (£5,00). If caught running a gambling operation in a venue or in public place, a maximum of ten years' imprisonment can also be charged.