Payout Assurance: UAE Raffle Draws Temporarily Paused
Raffle draws in the UAE are set to temporarily pause operations in compliance with the latest directives from the Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). Despite the hiatus, winners will receive their prize money, with assurances from both Emirates Draw and Mahzooz that payouts will proceed as scheduled. The pause is described as an "industry-wide mandate" aligning with regulatory efforts to establish a well-regulated gaming environment in the UAE.
The decision to halt gaming operations is in line with directives from the UAE Gaming Regulatory Authority, a federal body established in September. While it remains unclear when other gaming companies will follow suit, Mahzooz emphasizes that the pause is a broader industry mandate in support of creating a regulated gaming environment in the country.
Paul Chader, head of operations at Emirates Draw, confirms that winners of the Fast5 game will continue to receive their Dh 25,000 monthly payouts during the pause. This commitment reflects the dedication of gaming operators to honoring prize commitments even amid operational pauses.
Mahzooz, addressing concerns about the payout of recent winners, assures that the two latest millionaires will receive their prize money within the usual 2 to 3 weeks timeframe. Suzan Kazzi, head of communications at E Wings (operator of Mahzooz), emphasizes that winners enjoy an immediate lump-sum payout, and the pause will not impact the withdrawal of their prizes.
“As for the winners of smaller prizes, the withdrawal of their prize money will not be affected by the operations pause. They will be able to withdraw their credit as per the usual procedure,” adds Kazzi, emphasizing the continuity of services for smaller prize winners.
Regarding the resumption of services, Mahzooz is in ongoing talks with the regulatory body, and the licensing process is in progress. Kazzi notes that Mahzooz aims to resume operations as soon as the National Lottery license is granted, ideally in the first quarter of 2024. However, the timeline is subject to regulatory processes, and Mahzooz is committed to adhering to deadlines while navigating the review of applications by UAE draw operators.
Emirates Draw, while not providing a specific resumption timeframe, assures a resumption of services upon further notice from the regulatory body. Paul emphasizes the importance of regulatory guidance in determining the timeline for recommencing their operations.
Both Emirates Draw and Mahzooz are optimistic about the future, with plans for new games and initiatives. Emirates Draw anticipates introducing exciting games in alignment with GCGRA guidelines, while Mahzooz aims to enhance the gaming experience, positioning itself as a strong homegrown brand with international reach.
As the gaming industry in the UAE takes a temporary pause, operators emphasize their commitment to regulatory compliance, transparency, and ensuring the continuity of prize payouts for winners, reinforcing trust in the gaming ecosystem.
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By- Sahiba Suri
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