Football and Cricket Lead Betting Interest in the UAE

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A representative of Play971, the UAE’s only licensed betting platform, has revealed which sports and types of bets are proving most popular among players in the country’s regulated market, according to Khaleej Times.

Football is one of the main drivers of betting activity, according to Philippa Bowland, Commercial Director at Play971. Major international matches and European club competitions attract the most interest.

During a recent major football tournament — which Bowland did not name — match-winner and total-goals bets were particularly popular. Live betting activity also increased during the final.

Cricket is another major draw. Play971 attributes its popularity to the UAE’s large and diverse expatriate population, with the sport holding particular cultural significance for many communities.

Beyond football and cricket, the platform offers betting on horse racing, tennis, basketball, mixed martial arts, Formula 1, cycling, volleyball, kabaddi and other sports. Bowland said the range reflects the varied sporting interests of UAE residents and helps maintain betting activity throughout the year.

Play971 is operated by Coin Technology Projects LLC. The company received its license from the UAE’s federal gaming regulator, the GCGRA, in November 2025. However, a federal license does not automatically allow the platform to operate across all seven emirates, as availability also depends on local regulations.