Suzan Kazzi, the head of communications at Ewings, the operator of the popular weekly raffle draw Mahzooz, has confirmed that the company has completed its application for the national lottery license in the UAE and is now awaiting approval. This development follows the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority’s (GCGRA) directive in late December 2023, requiring all UAE raffle operators, including Mahzooz and Emirates Draw, to pause their operations.
The GCGRA, established in September 2023, announced that it would grant a single national lottery license to one raffle operator in the UAE. According to Kazzi, the application process began in the third week of December 2023, with Mahzooz submitting its application promptly despite the holiday season.
Mahzooz, known for its track record of creating 66 millionaires and distributing over Dh500 million to more than 2 million winners globally in the last three years, ceased sales on January 1, 2024, in compliance with the regulatory requirements. Kazzi emphasized the company’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and supporting the regulators’ efforts to establish a responsible gaming environment in the UAE.
Kazzi expressed optimism about winning the license, citing Mahzooz’s impact through its CSR outreach program that has reached over 10,000 people, and its strong infrastructure, including an experienced international team and a network of partners. This foundation, she believes, positions Mahzooz well to resume operations swiftly once the license is granted.
