Football fans in the UAE now have a new way to follow international matches. Play971, the country's first licensed online sports wagering platform, has started offering legal wagering on major football games ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The platform is open to users aged 21 and above. Fans can access it through their phones or computers. The launch comes as excitement around the upcoming World Cup continues to grow across the region.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, making it the biggest World Cup in history. Play971 is offering access to international football markets, allowing users to follow matches more interactively. Industry experts believe that interest in football wagering could rise sharply as the tournament gets closer.
Football remains one of the most followed sports in the UAE. Major international tournaments often attract huge audiences, and FIFA 2026 is expected to be no different.
Play971 is another indication of how the UAE’s gaming industry is evolving. This gaming portal has been authorized by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) to conduct its activities. It has been revealed that licensed online gaming businesses need to adhere to stringent regulations. The aim is to create a safe and regulated environment for users.
The platform also offers other gaming options, including casino-style games and horse racing markets.
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Philippa Bowland, Commercial Director for iGaming at Play971, said the platform had been designed with sports fans in mind, with match and player markets, tournament-themed games, and a streamlined tournament page.
“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,” Bowland said.
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, Play971 is entering the market as interest in football rises. Its launch marks a new chapter for the UAE's regulated gaming sector and gives football fans another way to engage with the sport they love.