While gambling is broadly prohibited under UAE law, a tightly regulated system of raffles, prize draws, and lotteries exists—and yes, in many cases, foreigners and non-residents can legally participate. From airport raffles to million-dirham prize draws, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what’s allowed, what’s not, and how global participants can engage with UAE-based lottery platforms.
Understanding UAE lottery laws and legal exceptions
Gambling, in all its forms, is illegal in the United Arab Emirates, based on Islamic law which underpins the country’s legal framework. Article 355 of the UAE Penal Code criminalizes participation in any form of gambling—whether in-person or online—with penalties including fines, imprisonment, or both. However, there are specific, regulated exceptions. Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 (as amended) allows licensed companies to conduct raffles, lucky draws, and lottery-style events under strict oversight. These are not classified as gambling when operated under approved guidelines and are usually tied to promotional campaigns, charitable efforts, or licensed commercial incentives. The Ministry of Economy is responsible for authorizing these operators. Only those entities officially licensed can offer such draws, and their operations must be compliant with the regulations set out by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
Who can participate? Residents, tourists, and foreigners
Participation eligibility varies by platform. Some UAE-based draws are open to anyone globally, while others are strictly for UAE residents with valid documentation.
Tourists and non-residents
- Tourists visiting the UAE can legally purchase tickets for certain draws like
Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire, either while in the country or online via official platforms. - Foreigners living outside the UAE may also participate in select international-facing raffles, provided they follow local laws in their own country regarding foreign lotteries.
It’s essential that non-resident participants:
- Use only official, licensed websites
- Confirm they meet the minimum age (typically 18+)
- Check any applicable fees or tax implications in their home country
Major lottery and raffle platforms in the UAE
As of October 2025, here is a detailed look at the UAE’s major legal lottery and raffle platforms, their eligibility requirements, and global accessibility:
The UAE Lottery (Launched December 2024)
- Status: Official national lottery
- Eligibility: Only open to UAE residents
- Requirements: Must have an Emirates ID and be physically located in the UAE
- Location Verification: Players must enable browser location settings; deposits and game purchases are geo-restricted
- Foreign Access: Not permitted—non-residents and tourists cannot participate
Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire
- Type: Luxury raffle draw at Dubai International Airport, popular with tourists and international buyers
- Eligibility: Open to all adults globally (UAE residents, visitors, and foreigners alike)
How to Participate:
- Purchase tickets online at the official Dubai Duty Free website
- Physical presence in the UAE is not required
Big Ticket Abu Dhabi
- Type: Raffle offering massive cash and luxury car prizes
- Eligibility: Open to anyone over 18, worldwide
How to participate:
- Buy tickets online through official website
- Also available via the Big Ticket mobile app (region-dependent)
- Foreigners/Tourists: Fully eligible, regardless of residency or travel status
- Payment: International credit/debit cards accepted
Emirates Draw
- Type: Digital lottery platform with weekly draws (MEGA7, EASY6, FAST5)
- Eligibility: Open to both UAE residents and foreigners aged 18+
- Residency Requirement: None
- Participation: Entirely online, including from abroad
- Note: Regulatory scrutiny has affected certain aspects of their operations, so rules may evolve. As of now, international participation remains allowed
- Prize Pool: Up to AED 100 million
- Recommendation: Always check the latest terms on the official Emirates Draw website
Investment-Linked Millionaire Draws by UAE banks
These are not traditional lotteries, but reward-based draws tied to financial products. Participation typically requires:
- UAE residency
- Holding a savings account or investment certificate with the issuing bank
- A valid Emirates ID and often a local bank account
Examples:
- Mashreq Millionaire (
Mashreq Bank ) - Kunooz Savings Certificate (Emirates Islamic Bank)
- Millionaire Savings Accounts from ADCB, ADIB, and First Abu Dhabi Bank
Foreigners and Non-Residents:
- Cannot participate unless they have UAE residency and a qualifying bank account
- These draws are inaccessible to tourists or individuals residing abroad due to banking and residency requirements
Key compliance notes for foreign participants
Participating in UAE-based lotteries as a foreigner or non-resident is legal only through licensed and government-authorized platforms. To avoid legal complications or financial loss, participants must adhere to the following guidelines:Use Only Authorized Platforms The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) oversees legal raffle and lottery operations. Any draw, platform, or seller not explicitly licensed or regulated under GCGRA or the Ministry of Economy should be avoided. Unauthorized websites or third-party vendors may not only be illegal but could also result in scams or invalid entries.Stay Updated on Platform-Specific Terms Some platforms, like Emirates Draw, have undergone regulatory changes and periodic updates. For example, although currently open to international participants, certain features or eligibility requirements may be paused or revised in the future. Always check the most recent participation criteria, prize claim rules, and refund policies directly from the official source.Understand Local Laws in Your Country of Residence Even if UAE law permits your entry into a lottery or raffle, the laws in your own country may impose restrictions on foreign lottery participation, impose taxes on winnings, or ban cross-border gaming altogether. Always ensure your participation complies with your local financial, tax, and gaming regulations.Be Cautious About Tax and Fee Obligations While UAE-based lottery platforms typically do not charge tax on winnings, you may be liable to declare and pay tax in your own country, depending on its tax code. Additionally, payment processing or currency conversion fees might apply during online purchases. Carefully review the fee structures and prize claim conditions before participating.Location and Age Requirements Minimum age for participation is 18 years across all legal platforms. Some platforms (like the official UAE Lottery) also require you to enable location services in your browser or app to verify physical presence within the UAE borders.
