The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has confirmed that Kevin Mullally will step down from his role as CEO.
Mullally, who joined the GCGRA during its formative phase, was instrumental in establishing the Authority’s regulatory foundations and ensuring that its framework aligned with global standards of integrity, oversight and responsible gaming.
His tenure oversaw the creation of a structured yet adaptable regulatory system designed to support innovation while maintaining consumer protection and transparency.
In a personal statement shared via LinkedIn, Mullally reflected on his departure.
He wrote: “Serving in this position has been one of the greatest professional honours of my career, and I am profoundly grateful for the exceptional team with whom I have had the privilege to work. Their dedication, expertise, and commitment to public service have been essential to everything we have achieved.”
Mullally noted that the GCGRA had successfully built an efficient, modern framework that safeguards integrity and consumer welfare while encouraging technological advancement within the gaming sector.
He described the regulatory structure as agile, predictable, and forward-looking, a system designed to foster responsible innovation and a dynamic industry future.
He also expressed deep pride in helping to establish this groundwork and emphasised that his commitment to the Authority’s principles and mission remains steadfast, even as he transitions out of the role.
Change in priorities
Mullally stated that his decision to resign followed a period of reflection during a visit to the US, where he realised the need to prioritise family at this stage in his life.
He plans to return to Kansas City with his wife, Jerri, to spend more time with their five children and eight grandchildren.
Under Mullally’s leadership, the GCGRA has played a crucial role in developing the UAE’s commercial gaming regulatory paradigm.
It was designed to combine international best practices with a pragmatic approach suited to the region’s economic and cultural context.
His departure comes at a significant juncture as the regulator moves from its foundational phase into operational maturity.
The Authority’s chairman, Jim Murren, has been appointed as interim CEO, assuming the position with immediate effect.
In a statement, Murren acknowledged Mullally’s contributions. He said that Mullally had been integral in shaping the Authority’s governance and regulatory framework and had set high standards for integrity and responsibility.
Murren reaffirmed that the GCGRA remains focused on advancing to its next stage of growth.
He reiterated the agency’s focus on regulatory excellence, promoting responsible gaming, and maintaining public confidence in the UAE’s approach to commercial gaming oversight.
UAE gambling ecosystem continues to take shape
The leadership transition coincides with the appointment of Jennifer Carleton as the GCGRA’s new chief of licensing and investigations.
As part of its strategic development and executive transitions, the GCGRA is also progressing with its licensing framework for both land-based and online gaming.
The Authority plans to allocate one online B2C gambling licence per emirate, mirroring its existing “one licence per emirate” model for land-based casinos.
At present, Wynn Resorts Limited holds the country’s only land-based licence, in Ras Al Khaimah.
Industry reports suggest that Abu Dhabi may be next to receive approval for a land-based casino licence, with only two or three emirates expected to move forward initially with online operator licences.
Vendor licences for B2B suppliers have already been issued as part of the Authority’s phased regulatory rollout.
