Residents signing up for the newly launched UAE Lottery are receiving a detailed email focused on the importance of responsible gaming. The email, sent to all participants, provides “essential guidance” to help players avoid problematic gaming behaviors, according to a representative from The Game LLC, the operator of the UAE Lottery.
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) defines problematic gaming as “reckless, impulsive, or compulsive engagement with gaming, indicating lack of control and responsibility.” The operator has taken steps to ensure that players are equipped with the resources and tools to manage their gaming activities responsibly.
The UAE Lottery operator emphasizes responsible gaming through several measures, including age verification, self-exclusion programs, and spending limits. The company offers players online tools and well-being support services, along with resources to help them make informed choices and manage their behavior.
Additionally, the UAE Lottery has partnered with Takalam, an online platform providing mental health support. Participants who feel that gaming may be affecting their well-being can access professional assistance through Takalam.
The UAE’s first official lottery, launched last week, features a jackpot of Dh100 million. The lottery’s operations were carefully evaluated to align with the GCGRA’s “rigorous regulatory standards,” which include a strong focus on promoting responsible gaming.
The GCGRA enforces responsible practices throughout the gaming experience, from game design to marketing and player support. The authority stresses that gaming should be viewed as a form of entertainment, not a way to generate income or make money.
Player Control Tools for Responsible Gaming
As part of its commitment to responsible gaming, The Game LLC provides players with several tools designed to empower them to manage their gaming habits:
- Deposit Limits: Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on their deposits. Once the limit is reached, no further deposits can be made until the limit resets.
- Time-out: Participants can choose a break of between 72 hours and six weeks, during which they will not have access to their account or receive marketing materials.
- Self-exclusion: This option allows players to suspend their account for a period of six months to five years, or even make the exclusion permanent. During this time, they can check their play history and withdraw funds but cannot deposit or play.
Recognizing Problematic Gaming
The GCGRA outlines several signs of problematic gaming, including a persistent desire to stop but an inability to quit, betting beyond financial capabilities, and increasing stakes over time. Players may also “chase losses” by continuing to play in an attempt to recover previous losses, often leading to borrowing money or accruing debt.
Other warning signs include spending excessive time on gaming sites, neglecting social and work responsibilities, and experiencing mood swings related to gaming activities.
By promoting responsible gaming practices and providing players with the necessary tools and support, the UAE Lottery aims to ensure that gaming remains a form of entertainment rather than a source of financial or personal harm.
