Online casinos are strictly illegal in Algeria under the country's comprehensive gambling prohibition laws. The legal framework governing gambling in Algeria is highly restrictive and is rooted in both religious principles and national law (1). As an Islamic nation where approximately 99% of the population is Muslim, Algeria has implemented a complete ban on all forms of gambling activities, including online casinos, based on Sharia law principles that consider gambling a sinful activity.
The Algerian Civil Code explicitly prohibits gambling and betting, with the exception of horse racing and certain sports betting activities, as outlined in Article 612 (1). The Penal Code further reinforces these restrictions through Articles 165-169, which establish penalties for operating gambling establishments. Additionally, the Algerian civil code prohibits gambling and betting however horse racing betting and sports betting (article 612 of the civil code) are exempted (2). The only legal gambling activities are state-run operations managed by Paris Sportif Algérien (PSA), which operates lotteries and limited sports betting with all profits directed to charitable causes.
"All gambling is illegal in Algeria except state-run lotteries, horse racing. There is no dedicated gambling regulator; oversight is by the Ministry of Youth and Sports for legal activities."
The government has taken active measures to prevent access to online gambling platforms by blocking foreign gambling websites and implementing internet censorship policies. Online gambling and betting are expressly prohibited, with websites blocked and no local online operators licensed (1). While some residents may attempt to access international gambling sites through VPNs, this practice remains illegal under Algerian law and could result in legal consequences including fines or imprisonment, though enforcement against individual players is reportedly rare.
Source:
https://legalpilot.com/country/algeria/
https://cms.law/en/int/expert-guides/cms-expert-guide-to-gambling-laws-in-africa/algeria
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
