The two executives have a combined 32 years of experience in the gambling industry according to LinkedIn - Murren is the former CEO of MGM Resorts International ( MGM), while Mullally held various positions at Gaming Laboratories International. Industry veterans Kevin Mullally and Jim Murren have been hired for key roles as CEO and chair respectively in the GCGRA, according to WAM.

“ facilitate unlocking the economic potential of commercial gaming responsibly,” WAM said. The new federal body, called the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), would create a “regulatory framework for a national lottery and commercial gaming,” according to Emirati state media WAM.

Gambling is currently illegal in the UAE, where some laws are based on the Quran, which forbids the practice. The UAE introduced a new regulatory body to oversee commercial gaming on Monday, made up of casino and gambling experts from the United States.

With its glitzy luxury resorts and a world-renowned horse racing industry, the United Arab Emirates soon might have a new card to play in attracting visitors - gambling.

Uae casino