Building on Global Experience: Creating the UAE’s Regulatory Future for Gambling and Betting
Join us for an engaging fireside chat exploring how the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority has leveraged proven lessons from established gambling jurisdictions to create a robust, responsible, and innovative new regulatory environment. Drawing on international best practices in areas such as responsible gambling and anti-money laundering (AML) and fraud monitoring, the fireside chat will discuss practical strategies and pitfalls to avoid, providing actionable insights for policymakers, operators, and stakeholders as the UAE embarks on its journey to regulate gambling and betting, ensuring both market integrity and player protection.

Join moderator Rui Pinto Proenca, the Managing Partner for MdME and Jennifer Carleton, the Chief of Licensing and Investigations for the UAE's General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority for an enlightening chat.

10:55 – 11:35 a.m.

AI and its Use in Gambling and Beyond
Explore how artificial intelligence can and is reshaping the gambling industry and driving responsible innovation across industry verticals. In this masterclass, experts from Amazon Web Services (AWS) will showcase the latest AI applications in gambling, and highlight how AI can be responsibly used to enhance the customer. Drawing on AI best practices from other industries, the discussion will help the audience gain a better understanding on how to leverage AI ethically and effectively, ensuring compliance, security, and superior customer engagement.

Presented by Paul Devlin, Betting, Gaming & Sports Worldwide Industry Leader for Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Evolving Responsible Gambling Programs in Asia
As Asia’s gambling markets expand and mass market participation rises, responsible gambling programs must adapt to new challenges and opportunities. This panel will explore how Asian jurisdictions are strengthening player protections, drawing on lessons from global leaders. Experts will discuss the evolution of responsible gambling initiatives—including self-exclusion, education, and harm minimization—and examine the impact of advertising restrictions and bans implemented in other regions.

Moderated by Peter Cohen, the Director of Regulatory Affairs for The Agenda Group, the panelists are:

• Joseph Bufalino, Executive Director of Responsible Gambling, Marina Bay Sands
• Tracy Schrans, Principal & President, Focal Research Consultants
• Al Watson, CEO, DataWorks Group

Networking Luncheon

Financial Crime Prevention and Compliance: Innovations and Best Practices
During this masterclass on the latest in financial crime prevention, detection and compliance, experts from (insert company here) will examine the latest trends, challenges, and solutions for global gambling industry operators. Our experts will discuss the integration of advanced technologies for financial crime and fraud detection and evolving regulatory requirements, highlighting best practices  and drawing on real-world examples from both gambling and finance. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for staying ahead of emerging threats, maintaining robust compliance standards, and fostering a culture of integrity and transparency.

Presented by Thomas Townson, Partner & Head of Financial Crime for Grant Thornton UK

Networking Break

Strategic Outlook for Asian Land-Based Casino Markets: Innovation, Investment, and the Future of Premium Mass Market
This panel brings together industry leaders and market experts to explore the evolving landscape of Asian land-based casino markets. The discussion will address the shift to post-junket revenue models and the rise of premium mass segments, as well as strategies for capital expenditure, integrated resort (IR) pipelines, and successful market entry. Panelists will also examine innovations in cashless gaming, floor efficiency, and customer experience (CX), sharing insights on how technology and operational excellence are shaping the future of the region’s casino industry. 

Moderated by Pedro Cortes, a Partner with Lektou, the panelists are:

• Muhammad Cohen, Asia Editor at Large, Clarion Gaming
• Alexander Ngo, Director, LexisNexis Risk Solutions