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Gambling in Egypt has always been a sensitive topic, shaped by religion, culture, and law. The Egyptian government takes a firm stand against gambling in almost all forms offline and online. While casinos exist in cities like Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh, they are strictly for foreign visitors. For Egyptian citizens, gambling remains illegal and heavily restricted.
Gambling Laws in Egypt
Under Egyptian law, all types of betting activities are banned for locals. These laws are deeply rooted in Islamic values, which view gambling as harmful to individuals and society. As a result, any form of wagering with real money is considered a violation of public order.
The country’s authorities closely monitor digital activity. They use advanced filtering systems to block gambling websites and restrict access to offshore casino platforms. Anyone caught gambling online risks severe punishment, including heavy fines or even jail time.
Casinos for Tourists Only
Despite strict regulations for locals, Egypt still hosts several land-based casinos that serve foreign tourists. These venues operate legally under government supervision, mainly to support the tourism industry. Some of the most popular casinos include:
- Casino Royale (Sharm El Sheikh): A luxury venue offering modern slot machines and classic table games.
- Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino: A historic location combining Egyptian charm with international gaming standards.
- Sinai Grand Casino (Sharm El Sheikh): Known for poker tournaments and Red Sea views, attracting many global visitors.
However, Egyptians are not allowed to enter or play in these casinos. Their access is limited to foreigners who present valid passports.
Why Online Gambling Is Risky in Egypt
Accessing or using online casinos from Egypt is a major legal risk. The government actively tracks and blocks gambling domains, and citizens caught using VPNs to bypass restrictions face penalties. Beyond legal trouble, there are also serious financial and security risks.
Since online gambling is unregulated in Egypt, players have no protection from scams, rigged platforms, or data theft. Moreover, gambling carries a strong social stigma. Getting caught could lead to public shame and family conflict, as gambling is viewed as a moral offense in Egyptian society.
Alternatives for Egyptian Players
Even though real-money gambling is banned, Egyptians still find safe ways to enjoy game-like experiences. Many turn to social casino games, where virtual coins are used instead of real money. These games are legal because they don’t involve cash winnings and are purely for entertainment.
Some Egyptians also enjoy traditional skill-based games, such as backgammon or dominoes, which have been part of local culture for centuries. Since these games depend on strategy rather than chance, they don’t fall under the legal definition of gambling.
Government Efforts and Digital Reforms
In recent years, Egypt has strengthened its digital monitoring systems to fight illegal online betting. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority now has advanced tools to detect and block gambling websites quickly.
There have been small discussions about creating special zones where controlled gambling could be allowed to boost tourism. However, these proposals face strong opposition from religious and political leaders. The government has also increased penalties for people promoting gambling on social media, signaling that the anti-gambling stance remains firm.
Egypt and the Global iGaming Perspective
Egypt’s strict gambling laws create a sharp contrast with the growing global iGaming industry. While many countries are legalizing and regulating online betting to generate tax revenue, Egypt remains committed to protecting its cultural and religious values.
This makes Egypt a unique case in the iGaming world a country balancing modern digital trends with long-standing traditions. The continued ban also highlights how deeply gambling restrictions are tied to national identity and moral responsibility.
Also Read: Online Casino Landscape in Japan : Booming Industry Or Growing Slow?
