Online casino gambling is strictly prohibited in Libya under the country's legal framework, which is governed by Islamic Sharia law and the 1953 Libyan Penal Code (1)(2). As a nation with over 95% Muslim population, Libya categorically bans all forms of gambling activities, viewing them as "haram" (forbidden) under Islamic religious teachings. The Libyan parliament formally imposed Sharia law as the main source of legislation in December 2013, reinforcing the existing prohibition against gambling that had been institutionalized within the Libyan Penal Code decades earlier.
The Libyan government maintains strict internet controls over gambling websites, actively blocking access to foreign online casino and betting platforms to prevent citizens from accessing these services (1)(2). Unlike some countries that focus enforcement primarily on operators, Libya's laws explicitly make playing at online gambling sites an illegal activity subject to penalties. No gambling licenses are issued within Libya's jurisdiction, and there are no legal land-based casinos or betting facilities operating in the country under the current Islamic legal framework.
"Playing at online gambling sites offering online casinos or online poker is considered to be an illegal activity in the country and thus subject to penalty."
Despite the comprehensive legal prohibitions and website blocking measures, some Libyans continue to access offshore gambling platforms through various technological means, though this remains illegal under national law (1)(2). The government's enforcement priorities appear to focus more on domestic gambling operations rather than pursuing individual players who access foreign sites. However, banking restrictions and limited payment method availability make it challenging for residents to engage with international gambling platforms, as Libya does not support e-wallet options or cryptocurrency transactions for gambling purposes, leaving only traditional banking methods that may not work with foreign gambling operators.
Source:
https://www.gamingzion.com/libya/gambling/gambling-sites/
https://online.worldcasinodirectory.com/libya
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
