Online casino gambling is strictly prohibited in Kuwait under the country's legal framework, which is heavily influenced by Islamic law and the Kuwait Penal Code (1)(2). As an Islamic nation, Kuwait categorically bans all forms of gambling activities, including online casinos, sports betting, and lottery games, viewing such activities as "haram" (forbidden) under Sharia law. The prohibition extends to both residents and tourists, with severe penalties imposed on those found operating or participating in gambling activities within the country's jurisdiction.
The Kuwaiti government maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward gambling operations, regularly conducting crackdowns on illegal gambling activities and investigating the rise of online gambling among citizens (1). Authorities have been particularly vigilant about virtual currency transactions related to online gambling, pursuing legal action against individuals involved in facilitating such activities. Article 394 of the Kuwait Penal Code specifically addresses unlawful gaming, imposing fines and potential imprisonment for violations, with broadcasting gambling advertisements or publishing gambling-related material also being punishable under the law.
"In Kuwait, it allows no casinos, sportsbooks, or even lottery games for whatever valid reasons exist; the prohibition is imposed on all residents and tourists alike."
Despite the comprehensive legal prohibitions, online gambling has gained popularity among younger Kuwaitis, with market research showing significant growth in underground gaming activities (1)(2). While the government attempts to block access to offshore gambling websites and prosecute operators, enforcement against individual players accessing international casino sites remains inconsistent. Some politicians, notably Waleed Al-Nasser, have proposed limited reforms to allow gambling and alcohol consumption for tourists in designated resort areas, but such proposals face significant opposition from religious leaders and conservative factions, making any substantial changes to Kuwait's gambling laws unlikely in the foreseeable future.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulations-in-kuwait/
https://haz-tayeb.com/en/arab-gambling-countries/
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
