As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) moves towards legalizing gambling, numerous uncertainties and questions are surfacing.
In such transformative times, clarity becomes invaluable. With a myriad of cultural and legislative issues to navigate and many new opportunities on the horizon, having a reliable partner who understands the unique intricacies of this evolving landscape is essential.
Dubai Casinos offers this local expertise and shares insights with Global Gambling News and our readers on the dramatic increase in local interest regarding the potential of gambling in the UAE.
Dubai casinos: localized expertise and guidance
Dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on casinos in Dubai and the broader UAE, Dubai Casinos delves into the cultural considerations and legal intricacies surrounding gambling in the region. They ensure their partners receive the most accurate information and guidance, simplifying complex legal concepts and presenting them in an understandable and accessible manner.
Data from over one million searches
Recently, Dubai Casinos collected data from over one million casino-related searches conducted since 2015. This report provides unique insights into the online search behavior of UAE residents and offers a closer look at the growing interest in this topic across the country. Their findings confirm that amidst the shimmering towers and bustling streets, a digital phenomenon is gaining significant momentum.
The Dubai casinos method
Dubai Casinos used Ahrefs, a search engine optimization (SEO) tool, to conduct keyword research, analyzing search volumes and other metrics. Google Trends was also used to analyze search popularity over time, revealing insights into shifting user interests and emerging trends. By combining data from both Ahrefs and Google Trends, Dubai Casinos provide actionable insights into casino search activity across the UAE.
Exponential growth and increased curiosity
The UAE’s story of casino searches tells a narrative of exponential growth and increasing curiosity. The digital footprints of eager explorers multiply daily, presenting an ever-evolving landscape. Dubai Casinos’ journey through the labyrinth of online data shows each search query as a demonstration of curiosity and positive growth in interest in the UAE’s casino and gaming scene.
Interest has grown 66x in the past decade
Since 2015, interest in casinos in the UAE has surged by 6,600%. This extraordinary growth underscores a significant rise in demand for casino-related information by residents throughout the region. While interest has been growing rapidly for years, the real boom occurred more recently, as serious considerations of legalizing gambling began in earnest.
In 2021, discussions about legalizing gambling sparked a significant uptick in interest in casino-related topics, leading to an almost doubling of related searches. This reflects the anticipation and excitement surrounding the prospect of legalization.
Significant growth in metrics
The first quarter of 2024 saw a remarkable 43.2% increase in casino search activity compared to the same period in 2023, indicating a substantial surge in interest. Compared to the fourth quarter of 2023, the first quarter of 2024 saw a 13.7% growth, further highlighting a positive trend in engagement. Year-on-year growth surged by 32.5%, signaling ever-increasing interest, with record levels anticipated for 2024.
Top 5 Emirates by interest
Google Trends scores search interest on a scale from 0 to 100. Dubai leads with a score of 100, followed by Umm Al Quwain (75), Ras Al Khaimah (73), Abu Dhabi (72), and Ajman (57).
Topics of interest to UAE residents
Casino legislation is the principal driver of UAE search trends. While physical casino searches grow slower than online casinos, there is still a significant uptick of approximately 430% between 2015 and 2023. The surge in searches since 2021/22 is largely due to rumors about potential legalization and the establishment of the first officially licensed casino in the UAE.
Surging interest despite legal restrictions
From 2020 to 2023, online casino searches grew by approximately 480%. This expansion can be attributed to factors like the global pandemic, which increased online activities and entertainment options.
Key announcements impacting interest
- January 2022: The announcement of the UAE’s first casino resort in Ras Al Khaimah in 2026 significantly impacted casino searches;
- November 2023: The establishment of the UAE Gaming Regulator led to a 49.59% increase in search volume, highlighting the regulatory impact on consumer behavior and gambling interests;
- January 2024: The suspension of prize draws did not significantly influence online activity, as searches continued to rise steadily.
2024 projections and anticipated volume
Dubai Casinos projects that 2024 will see new records in casino-related searches, with an estimated volume of 378,792 searches. This surge reflects a significant rise in curiosity and engagement with casino-related topics in the UAE over the past decade. Search volumes are poised to reach unprecedented levels, with 2024 promising to be a landmark year for the casino industry in the UAE.
In summary, the excitement surrounding the potential for the casino industry in the UAE is very real and growing rapidly. The full Dubai Casinos Study can be found [HERE]. For accurate and detailed information, Dubai Casinos remains the go-to source.
