UAE’s Play971 launches football betting ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup
The UAE’s first licensed sports wagering and igaming platform has expanded its offering with football betting markets and tournament-focused content ahead of the global tournament.
Play971 has launched football betting in the UAE ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The operator became the UAE’s first licensed sports wagering and igaming platform when it launched in December 2025 following approval from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA).
Play971 is operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC, part of Abu Dhabi-based Momentum Group, and holds licences for both Internet Gaming and Sports Wagering from the GCGRA. The launch on June 5 marks the latest addition to Play971’s regulated gaming offering in the UAE.
Philippa Bowland, commercial director for igaming at Play971, said the football betting launch was designed to enhance the experience for sports fans in the UAE. “The UAE is home to some of the most passionate and engaged sports fans in the world. For the first time, a locally rooted platform like Play971 adds a new layer to the sports experience – making it possible for fans to play sustainably, rally behind their teams, and enjoy major football moments together”, said Bowland.
The platform was developed with football supporters in mind ahead of the World Cup. The sportsbook includes match and player betting markets, tournament-themed games and a dedicated tournament page created specifically for the competition.
Play971 offers wagering on international and regional sporting events, UAE football and horse racing, alongside casino-style and live dealer games. The platform is available only to customers aged 21 and older who are physically located within the UAE, with the operator prohibiting the use of VPNs and other location-masking tools.
Player protection measures are also built into the platform. Users can set deposit limits, take temporary time-outs and activate self-exclusion tools, while customer support is available for players seeking guidance or assistance.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11 and run until July 19, with 48 teams competing across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
