Online casinos are strictly prohibited in Yemen under both state law and Islamic Sharia law, which forms the foundation of the country's legal system (1). Yemen does not issue gambling licenses to any operators, and no legal casinos or betting websites exist within the country's borders. The prohibition extends to all forms of gambling, including online platforms, as the nation adheres to Islamic principles that consider gambling activities morally corrupt and forbidden.
Despite the comprehensive legal ban, many Yemenis continue to access offshore gambling platforms that operate outside the country's jurisdiction (1). These international sites often provide services in Arabic and cater to local populations, though users gambling on such platforms do so without legal protection. The transitional government faces significant challenges in enforcing these prohibitions due to ongoing political instability and limited regulatory capacity.
"Sharia law shapes Yemen's legal system. It bans all gambling—on the ground and online. No government agency grants licenses to gambling operators."
The conflict between traditional Islamic values and modern digital technology creates a complex legal environment where enforcement remains weak and scattered (1). While the law clearly states that gambling is illegal, authorities rarely take action against individual users, creating a gap between official prohibition and practical enforcement. According to Islamic teachings, gambling is considered haram (forbidden) because it involves earning money through chance rather than honest work, and it can lead to addiction and financial harm (2). As Yemen works toward political stability, lawmakers may need to address the challenges posed by online gambling in the digital age while maintaining respect for the country's religious foundations.
Source:
https://cso-yemen.org/online-gambling-in-yemens-transitional-framework/
https://irusa.org/is-gambling-haram/
Last updated: 20-07-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
