Momentum Group and Fanatics have established a joint venture to manage commercial gaming operations in the United Arab Emirates. The new entity incorporates Momentum’s existing licenses, including the UAE Lottery and the Play971 platform.
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has approved the change in control for the licensed entities involved. Fanatics contributes its technology infrastructure and operational experience from the US market to the partnership. Both companies plan to invest jointly in platform development and player protection measures.
Strategic Expansion
Scott Burton, chief operating officer of Momentum Group, stated that the partnership combines regional expertise with global product capabilities. He noted that the joint venture allows the companies to support a regulated ecosystem and accelerate innovation. This agreement also marks Fanatics' first expansion outside its primary US market.
Momentum Group secured the tender to operate the UAE Lottery in July 2024, with the service launching in December of that year. The company subsequently introduced Play971 in November 2025 as the first fully licensed iGaming business in the region. Sports and race betting were added to the platform in June of the following year.