Online casinos are completely illegal in Oman under the country's strict Islamic law framework. The Sultanate of Oman criminalizes all forms of gambling activities, including both land-based and online casino operations, based on religious principles that view gambling as immoral and sinful (1). Under Royal Decree 7/2018, also known as the Omani Penal Law, anyone who arranges, prepares, or manages gambling activities faces imprisonment for three months to three years and fines ranging from 100 to 1,000 Rial Omani, demonstrating the government's zero-tolerance approach to gambling.
The prohibition extends to all gambling-related activities, with no licensing system available for casino operators and no regulatory framework for the gambling industry. As an Islamic country following Sharia law principles, Oman's legal system treats gambling as strictly forbidden (haram), considering it contrary to Islamic teachings that emphasize earning wealth through honest work rather than relying on luck (1). Law enforcement agencies actively monitor and enforce these prohibitions, conducting inspections to ensure compliance with the strict anti-gambling laws throughout the country.
"All forms of gambling are prohibited in the country, including betting and casinos. This includes both the land-based and online gambling sector."
Despite the comprehensive legal prohibition, some Omani residents still access offshore online gambling platforms, though they do so without any legal protections or government oversight. The authorities do not actively pursue individual players who gamble online with foreign operators, focusing instead on preventing the establishment of local gambling operations (2). However, those caught engaging in illegal gambling activities face serious consequences, including potential imprisonment and substantial fines. The government shows no indication of relaxing these restrictions in the foreseeable future, as the gambling ban is deeply rooted in the country's centuries-old religious traditions and cultural values that remain central to Omani society.
Source:
https://omannews.gov.om/topics/en/102/show/110475
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulations-in-oman/
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
