Hub88 and Live88 secure UAE gaming licences

Hub88 and Live88, two of Yolo Group’s foremost B2B brands, have achieved a landmark milestone in the international iGaming industry by officially obtaining gaming-related vendor licences from the United Arab Emirates’ General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).

The GCGRA, an independent regulatory body established under the UAE Federal Government, holds exclusive jurisdiction to regulate, license, and supervise all forms of commercial gaming within the country. Its oversight ensures that all gaming-related activities align with the UAE’s federal standards on transparency, responsible gaming, and corporate governance.

The approval marks a historic first entry for Hub88 and Live88 into the newly structured UAE market, which has recently begun implementing its regulatory framework for commercial gaming. For both companies, these licences are not just operational permissions—they represent a pivotal strategic milestone that signals trust, compliance, and readiness to contribute to a fast-evolving Gulf economy.

A breakthrough for Yolo Group’s B2B division

The dual approval granted to Hub88 and Live88 positions Yolo Group’s B2B arm at the forefront of innovation in the Middle East’s emerging iGaming ecosystem. Hub88, known for its aggregation services that connect operators with diverse digital content providers, will now be able to supply its extensive portfolio of gaming solutions to licensed operators throughout the UAE.

Meanwhile, Live88’s licence enables it to offer live casino experiences to the same market—a critical move that introduces localized, regulated live gaming entertainment to the Emirates. Notably, Live88 will become the first online live casino studio licensed within the UAE, marking a groundbreaking precedent in a region traditionally cautious about gambling activities.

This authorization allows both companies to advance within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, which has seen increasing attention from international digital entertainment and technology firms due to its economic diversification efforts.

A pioneering step for regulated iGaming in the Emirates

The significance of these licences extends far beyond operational access. They represent a key moment in the UAE’s regulatory modernization, as the GCGRA aims to create a well-structured, responsible, and transparent environment for gaming and digital entertainment.

For the UAE, which has long sought to balance innovation with cultural and regulatory considerations, the establishment of a formal licensing system indicates a controlled and accountable approach to the introduction of gaming-related services.

For Hub88 and Live88, this development underscores their alignment with international best practices, including player protection, fair play, data privacy, and anti-money laundering compliance—standards now required by the UAE’s newly formed framework.

Strengthening regional presence through compliance and innovation

By obtaining the GCGRA’s approval, Hub88 and Live88 not only reinforce their reputations as trusted technology partners but also strengthen their ability to offer advanced digital gaming infrastructure across the GCC region. The licences permit the companies to build regulated relationships with UAE-based operators, who will be required to meet stringent criteria for ethical conduct and technological security.

Live88’s achievement as the UAE’s first licensed live casino studio is particularly noteworthy. The company’s model, which emphasizes immersive, real-time gaming experiences, is expected to pave the way for a new category of entertainment in the UAE—one that blends digital interactivity with regulatory oversight.

This achievement also sets a benchmark for other global iGaming providers interested in entering the UAE market under compliant conditions.

Maintaining high standards through R&D in Estonia

While expanding into the UAE, both Hub88 and Live88 will continue their core research and development operations at their established base in Tallinn, Estonia. The Estonian hub has long been a center of technological excellence for Yolo Group, fostering innovation in product development, automation, and system integration.

By maintaining their R&D foundation in Europe, the companies can ensure consistency in quality and compliance before introducing new solutions to the UAE and other regulated markets. This approach demonstrates Yolo Group’s emphasis on responsible expansion rather than aggressive market entry.

The continued R&D presence in Tallinn also allows the teams to test new gaming technologies—from AI-driven live dealer solutions to advanced content aggregation systems—under strict European standards before wider deployment across the GCC.

A statement from Yolo’s leadership

Commenting on the milestone, Lara Falzon, CEO of Yolo’s B2B brands, expressed pride in the achievement, emphasizing the regulatory significance and the group’s commitment to compliance.

“Securing these licences represents a strong vote of confidence from the UAE’s regulatory body in our brands, our technology and our commitment to operating to the highest standards of integrity and innovation.

This development reassures our clients and partners of our long-term vision to operate exclusively in regulated markets.”

Falzon’s remarks encapsulate Yolo Group’s broader corporate philosophy—sustainable growth through transparency and accountability.

The evolving role of the GCGRA

The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority plays a critical role in shaping the region’s gaming ecosystem. Established to oversee licensing, consumer protection, and compliance, the GCGRA’s mandate aims to ensure that all market participants adhere to international best practices and ethical business conduct.

The Authority’s decision to grant vendor licences to Hub88 and Live88 highlights the growing trust in global B2B operators capable of maintaining robust regulatory frameworks. By working with experienced international companies, the UAE seeks to set global standards for regulated commercial gaming in the Middle East.

This development also reflects the UAE’s broader economic vision, which involves diversifying income streams and nurturing technology-driven industries. Gaming and digital entertainment, when regulated, are seen as potential contributors to both innovation and economic sustainability.

A strategic move for the Gulf region

The approval of Hub88 and Live88 is not only a business win for Yolo Group but also a strategic step for the GCC’s digital economy. As Gulf nations invest heavily in technology, blockchain, and entertainment infrastructure, gaming platforms are increasingly recognized as legitimate sectors of innovation and employment.

By entering the UAE market through formal licensing, Hub88 and Live88 are positioning themselves as early leaders in what could become one of the most closely monitored and responsibly managed gaming industries globally.

Their early compliance with UAE regulations also provides them with a competitive advantage—setting a high standard that may become a prerequisite for other global companies seeking entry into this jurisdiction.

Outlook for regulated gaming in the UAE

Industry observers anticipate that the UAE’s regulated gaming landscape will evolve cautiously but steadily. With the GCGRA now fully operational, the next phase is likely to focus on developing operational guidelines, licensing frameworks for operators, and introducing responsible gaming measures designed to protect consumers.

Hub88 and Live88’s early entry into this ecosystem positions them as partners in shaping industry norms, offering both technical expertise and compliance experience that can assist the UAE in building a sustainable market.

Their focus on licensed jurisdictions aligns with growing international pressure for regulated and transparent gaming operations, ensuring that the industry develops responsibly and ethically.

Conclusion

The successful licensing of Hub88 and Live88 by the UAE’s GCGRA signifies more than just regulatory approval—it marks the beginning of a new chapter for regulated iGaming in the Middle East.

For Yolo Group, it is a reaffirmation of its commitment to compliance, technological excellence, and ethical business practices. For the UAE, it is a step toward establishing itself as a global model for regulated digital entertainment, combining innovation with strong governance.

As both Hub88 and Live88 prepare to bring their aggregation and live casino services to the UAE, their focus on transparency, integrity, and innovation will continue to define their journey across the Gulf region and beyond.

FAQs

What is the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA)?
The GCGRA is an independent UAE federal authority responsible for regulating and licensing all commercial gaming activities in the country.

What licences did Hub88 and Live88 receive?
Hub88 and Live88 received gaming-related vendor licences from the GCGRA, allowing them to operate within the UAE’s regulated gaming market.

Why is this approval significant?
It marks the first time these companies have entered the UAE market under formal regulation, demonstrating compliance with new federal gaming laws.

What services will Hub88 and Live88 offer in the UAE?
Hub88 will provide aggregation services to licensed operators, while Live88 will introduce live casino gaming experiences.

Is Live88 the first licensed live casino in the UAE?
Yes, Live88 is set to become the first live casino studio officially licensed to operate in the UAE.

Where are Hub88 and Live88 based?
Both companies maintain their research and development operations in Tallinn, Estonia, as part of Yolo Group’s B2B division.

How does this impact Yolo Group’s position globally?
The licences strengthen Yolo Group’s reputation as a compliant and innovative B2B gaming technology provider.

What does this mean for the UAE’s gaming industry?
It signals the beginning of a regulated commercial gaming market, supported by responsible governance and oversight.

Will more gaming companies receive UAE licences soon?
It is likely that the GCGRA will issue additional licences as it continues to build the regulatory framework.

How does this move align with Yolo Group’s long-term strategy?
It aligns with the company’s goal to operate exclusively in regulated markets, emphasizing compliance, integrity, and technological advancement.