GCGRA Appoints New General Counsel and Board Secretary
United Arab Emirates.- 22 July 2026 www.zonadeazar.com The United Arab Emirates’ General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) has appointed Dr Ahmad Hesham as its new general counsel and board secretary. The appointment is intended to strengthen the authority’s legal and regulatory capabilities as the country develops its commercial gaming market.
News Details
Hesham joins the regulator with more than 25 years of experience in law, regulation and public policy across multiple jurisdictions.
He previously served as general counsel and senior legal adviser to the UAE federal government, where he contributed to drafting and implementing several legislative reforms. These included the UAE Labour Law, Domestic Workers Law, Unemployment Insurance Scheme and Higher Education Law.
The new appointee holds a PhD and two master’s degrees in law. He has also occupied several judicial positions, including vice-president of the Supreme Administrative Court, and has represented governments and public institutions at regional and international forums.
Industry Context
The GCGRA was established in 2023 and is responsible for coordinating commercial gaming regulation across the UAE, including the management and supervision of licensing.
Hesham’s appointment follows the confirmation of Ciarán Carruthers as the regulator’s permanent chief executive. The leadership changes come as the UAE accelerates the development of its regulated gaming sector through the licensing of online and land-based suppliers.
In November 2025, Momentum secured internet gaming and sports wagering licences covering the UAE. Regulatory expansion has also included the launch of Play971, described as the country’s first online gaming website.
Statements
The GCGRA said Hesham’s experience would strengthen its expertise:
“As we continue to build a robust and internationally respected regulatory framework for commercial gaming in the UAE.”
At the time of his appointment, Carruthers stated:
“The UAE is establishing itself as a global benchmark for modern and responsible gaming regulation, and I look forward to working closely with the team, licensees and government partners to deliver on that ambition.”
Next Steps or Impact
Hesham is expected to play a central role in advising the authority, supporting the board and developing the legal framework governing operators and suppliers.
The appointment strengthens the GCGRA’s institutional structure as the UAE seeks to expand its regulated market under international standards of compliance, supervision and responsible gaming.
Edited by: @_fonta
