Running a promotional sweepstake, prize draw, or competition in the UAE requires permits from the relevant authority and compliance with
Sweepstakes & Promotional Campaign Licensing covers legal assessment, documentation and practical support in the UAE. It is typically relevant to businesses, investors and founders establishing or operating under federal, emirate-level or free-zone rules. The applicable requirements and competent authority depend on the activity, place of establishment and where the service or transaction is performed.
The applicable framework depends on the activity, place of establishment and place of performance. UAE federal law, the relevant emirate’s law and free-zone rules are distinguished as the matter requires.
Last reviewed: 22 September 2026
Running a promotional sweepstake, prize draw, or competition in the UAE requires permits from the relevant authority and compliance with consumer-protection and advertising regulations. The classification of the promotion - prize draw, skill contest, or lottery - determines the applicable licensing requirements.
We advise brands, retailers, and marketing agencies on the legal classification of their planned promotion, secure the necessary permits, and ensure compliance with advertising codes and consumer-protection rules.
Our support covers drafting official rules, managing the permit-application process with the relevant authority, and advising on prize-fund management and winner-selection procedures.