Is betting legal in the United Arab Emirates?

Betting on sports is illegal primarily in the UAE.

How can I bet online safely in the UAE?

Use a VPN to stay hidden and safe. This is important because betting online is illegal in the UAE.

What payment methods are best for online betting in the UAE?

Use payment options like e-wallets. You can also use cryptocurrencies. These do not directly link your bank with betting companies.

What should I look for in a UAE sports betting site?

Pick safe and reliable sites that offer many sports. They must have good customer support. It should also let you bet on your phone.

Are there risks with online betting sites in the UAE?

Yes, there's a risk of unsafe sites since there's no strict control. Always choose well-known sites and have good reviews.

Sports Betting Online in United Arab Emirates (UAE) 2024

Last update at 28 March, 2024

Allbets stands out as a crucial resource for bettors. Sports betting online in the United Arab Emirates requires a guide. Our knowledgeable staff undertook extensive research to discover the best bookies, emphasizing excellent service and appealing perks such as welcome bonuses and cashback. These bookies are rated using defined criteria, allowing gamblers to comprehend their distinguishing characteristics.

Our service goes beyond simple listing. We provide comprehensive reviews for each bookmaker, considering critical topics such as licenses, sports libraries, and payment alternatives. Furthermore, we provide step-by-step registration tutorials and extensive inspections of their iOS and Android mobile apps, assuring a frictionless betting experience for users.

List of Best Bookmakers in the United Arab Emirates

Rank	Bookmaker	Rating	Bonus	Get bonus
1	Kingmaker	4.8/5	Welcome bonus up to $100	Play Read review
2	Boomerang Casino	4.5/5	100% Welcome Bonus up to 390 AED	Play Read review
3	Sportaza	4.5/5	100% Welcome Bonus up to USD 100	Play Read review
4	starda	4.5/5	150% welcome bonus up to 540 AED	Play Read review
5	BetBeast	4.5/5	Welcome Bonus up to 3500 AED	Play Read review
6	Rabona	4.5/5	100% welcome bonus of up to 150$	Play Read review
7	22Bet	4.5/5	100% welcome bonus up to 480 AED.	Play Read review
8	1xBet	4.5/5	Welcome Bonus up to 100 EUR	Play Read review
9	20Bet	4.5/5	Welcome bonus up to 400 AED	Play Read review

All bookmakers

History of online betting in the United Arab Emirates

All kinds of gambling in the UAE are prohibited. This is due to the Islamic rules of the country. Gambling is illegal under these laws. Even before the internet, there was no legal means in the UAE to wager on sports for money.

With the rise of the internet, online betting became famous worldwide, but the UAE maintained its tight prohibition. The government prohibits access to Internet betting services and has the authority to prosecute anybody who uses or operates them.

Some UAE residents may use specific internet tools to access betting sites, which is extremely dangerous. If they are apprehended, they may face harsh legal repercussions.

Up until today, the UAE still doesn't allow any gambling.

This also includes online sports betting. This reflects the country's commitment to its traditional values and laws.

How is online betting regulated in the United Arab Emirates?

In the United Arab Emirates, internet betting is governed by a restrictive legal framework. This reflects the nation's conservative approach. The law encompasses both traditional and digital forms of gambling. It says that they are all illegal.

Gambling is defined under Federal Decree-Law No. 31/2021. Additionally, it has harsh punishments for gambling activity. This includes imprisonment and substantial fines. The Federal Law No. 5/1985 declares any gambling-related agreements null and void.

To specifically address online gambling, the UAE has implemented the Cyber Crime Law, which includes heavy fines for those managing or promoting unauthorized gambling websites. The Media Regulatory Office sets content regulations for gaming companies, and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority actively blocks access to gambling-related content online.

However, there are exceptions to these strict laws. The Civil Transactions Law permits betting under specific conditions in activities like racing, shooting, sports, and muscle building, provided the betting agreements meet specific criteria.

The UAE recently established the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority. This agency was to oversee the gaming industry. It aims to create a socially responsible and well-regulated environment.

What did we consider when picking the best bookmaker in the United Arab Emirates?

When picking the best bookmakers in the United Arab Emirates, the Allbets team considered several important factors:

1
Following UAE Laws:
The UAE has strict rules about betting. We made sure the bookmakers we chose followed these laws.
2
Popular Sports:
We looked for bookmakers focusing on sports people in the UAE love. This includes sports like camel racing, horse racing, and football.
3
Payment Methods:
We chose bookmakers that accept many different ways to pay, including the ones commonly used in the UAE. This makes it easier for everyone to bet.
4
Easy to Use:
The bookmakers we selected are user-friendly and work well for people in the UAE. They support local languages and currencies.
5
Good Customer Support:
We picked bookmakers with helpful and quick customer service. These ideally offer services in multiple languages.
6
Bonuses:
We looked for bookmakers that offer great bonuses. It is mainly for those that match the significant sporting events in the UAE.
7
Safety and Fair Play:
These bookmakers must be safe to use and treat players fairly. We checked that they have suitable security and are appropriately licensed.

How to bet online in the United Arab Emirates

Betting online from the United Arab Emirates is a sensitive topic. All forms of online sports betting are illegal. Some individuals in the UAE might choose to access international betting platforms. These operate outside the jurisdiction of UAE law. If you are considering this, here are the steps:

Do Research:
step 1
Choose an international sportsbook. Since local laws in the UAE are strict about gambling, selecting a reliable and reputable international betting platform is essential.
Sign Up & Show ID:
step 2
Register for an account on your chosen platform and verify your identity. This typically requires a photo ID and proof of address. You must complete this step to withdraw any winnings.
Choose an E-wallet:
step 3
For financial transactions, consider using an e-wallet. These services can make money transfers more accessible and more discreet. Find your e-wallet. Use it to deposit funds into your betting account.
Choose a Sport:
step 4
Look through the betting site's sports markets. Choose a sport that interests you and look for a match or event to wager on. You should examine odds across several bookmakers to see if you can get a better return.
Bet Wisely:
step 5
After you have selected your selections, you can place your bets. Remember to gamble sensibly and within your means.

Top 5 best online betting sites in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates' online betting landscape features diverse platforms offering unique betting experiences. These online sports betting platforms vary regarding safety ratings and modern features like cryptocurrency support, addressing different player preferences and needs.

Sportaza

Sportaza is highly rated for safety, indicating it's a great option for betting. It offers a significant selection of sports markets. The platform also accepts cryptocurrency deposits. Players can expect a positive experience and good treatment.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit	Deposit Methods
100% match bonus up to $/€500	New Account	10 AED	Cards, E-wallets, Bank transfers, cryptocurrency

Starda

Starda is also marked with a high safety index. This suggests that it is a secure betting environment. The platform stands out with exciting promotions. It has a user-friendly website design. The platform also has a mobile app. This is optimized for iOS and Android users. It supports cryptocurrency deposits as well.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit	Deposit Methods
100% match bonus up to $/€500	New Account	10 AED	Cards, E-wallets, Bank transfers, cryptocurrency

BetBeast

This is a relatively new entry in the market. BetBeast is smaller revenue-wise. It offers various responsible gambling options. The platform also offers competitive odds. It supports cryptocurrencies. However, it's too new to have a long-standing reputation and has many restricted countries.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit	Deposit Methods
100% match bonus up to $/€500	New Account	10 AED	Cards, E-wallets, Bank transfers, cryptocurrency

Rabona

Rabona boasts a very high safety index, the best rating from the reviewing body. It is a smaller sports betting platform in terms of revenue. This may affect its ability to pay huge wins. The platform is known for accepting players from many countries. It supports multiple languages. They also offer competitive odds. Players will enjoy 24/7 live chat support.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit	Deposit Methods
100% match bonus up to $/€500	New Account	10 AED	Cards, E-wallets, Bank transfers, cryptocurrency

22BET

22BET has a low safety index, suggesting it might not be the best option for most players. It's a medium-sized platform popular in Europe. The platform supports numerous cryptocurrencies and payment methods. These can also be used for withdrawals.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit	Deposit Methods
100% match bonus up to $/€500	New Account	10 AED	Cards, E-wallets, Bank transfers, cryptocurrency

Popular Sports for Betting in the United Arab Emirates

Several sports are popular for betting in the United Arab Emirates. The most prominent are:

Horse Racing: This sport is trendy in the UAE. It is among marquee events like the Dubai World Cup. This is one of the richest horse races globally. Betting on horse racing is a significant activity. Online betting sites in the United Arab Emirates prominently feature horse racing. It offers various betting options.
Camel Racing: This is a traditional sport in the UAE. It continues to be very popular. The sport draws large crowds of locals and tourists. However, betting in person is prohibited. However, virtual camel racing betting options are offered by some platforms.
Football: Football is hugely popular in the UAE. The abundance of markets provides ample betting opportunities. Betting sites in the UAE offer various options for football betting. This includes prop bets focusing on individual player performances.
Cricket: Cricket is a major sport in the UAE. It features events like the Indian Premier League in Dubai. The national team has shown significant progress. It reflects the sport's growing popularity. Online betting sites in the UAE offer extensive cricket coverage.
They include major international and domestic tournaments. Bettors are encouraged to explore various bet types beyond just the match results.
Formula 1: Formula 1 is a leading motorsport. It is famous in the UAE. Bookmakers give gamblers a wide variety of betting chances by offering wagers on all of the season's races, including those held in Abu Dhabi.

New Betting Sites in the United Arab Emirates December 2023

Despite the UAE's strict betting rules, many new betting sites are taking root. Here is an overview of the top best new betting sites in United Arab Emirates.

Sportaza: Sportaza started in 2020. It's easy to use and offers lots of soccer betting. They give new users a unique bonus and have good odds of winning. Sportaza is safe and keeps user information private. It has many sports to bet on and live betting where you can bet during live eSports events.

Starda: Starda is suitable for beginners. It's run by a company with a Curacao license, making it safe. New users get a big bonus when they join. Starda has many sports like football and basketball. You can bet on live eSports events. They offer different bonuses and have a VIP club for regular users.

BetBeast: This online sports betting platform is vast. It has a lot of sports markets to bet on. Dama N.V. runs it. The platform is licensed in Curacao. Your money is safe here. They offer live betting with clear streams. BetBeast has good odds. It also has lots of choices for betting.

Rabona: Rabona started in 2019 and is safe with a Curacao license. New users get a bonus. They have over 30 sports, like football and tennis, and you can bet live, especially on eSports. Rabona offers good odds and different ways to bet.

22BET: 22BET was founded in 2017. It is simple to use. The platform is entirely secure. The Curaçao Gaming Commission and the Kahnawake Gaming Commission license it. They provide several bets on sports such as cricket and tennis. 22BET allows you to cash out early on select bets but does not provide live game streaming.

How popular is mobile betting in the United Arab Emirates?

In the United Arab Emirates, mobile betting is becoming more popular. There are many smartphones and fast internet connections, which contributes to this tendency. By 2024, about 4.57 million UAE residents will own smartphones, making mobile betting even more popular.

However, the UAE government has severe laws regarding using the internet and apps, making mobile betting difficult. Despite these restrictions, over 42% of UAE residents wager on sports yearly.

Betting applications have made betting from anywhere more accessible and more convenient. These apps also provide exclusive offers. Despite the severe rules, many people in the UAE like mobile betting since it is simple and convenient.

Best sports betting apps in the United Arab Emirates

Online sports betting platforms in the UAE provide unique features to appeal to a vast population. These platforms enhance the online betting experience by combining wide game selections, appealing bonuses, and improved security. The following are the top three sports betting apps in the UAE.

Sportaza App

Sportaza was launched in 2020. It offers a vast selection of over 8,600 games. The platform has a sportsbook with many betting options and big jackpots. Players can enjoy various bonuses like welcome offers and cashback. It focuses on safety, using strong encryption, and following strict regulations.

Starda App

Starda is known for being safe and reliable. It's part of a larger group, ensuring financial stability. The platform offers exciting promotions. It has a user-friendly website. Users can also enjoy cryptocurrency deposits. However, game and payment options vary by country, and its responsible gaming features are limited.

BetBeast App

BetBeast is relatively new and smaller in size. It's known for fast payouts, a smooth gaming experience, and an excellent design. It offers responsible gambling options and live dealer games.

How to Deposit at United Arab Emirates Betting Sites

It is essential to understand the various deposit methods available. This is because it adds to the entire betting experience. Each deposit method caters to different preferences. It also has the requirements. Since the UAE bans online betting, how can bettors make deposits? Here is a brief breakdown.

Cards:
E-Wallets:
Prepaid Cards:
Cryptocurrencies:

Cards: These are the UAE's most popular and readily available options for bettors. Most sportsbooks widely accept them.

E-Wallets: Using eWallets for betting transactions has become much more common. These systems provide a quick and safe method to send money.

Prepaid Cards: Prepaid cards are accepted at several sportsbooks. Those who wish to deposit money without using their bank accounts can use this option.

Cryptocurrencies: Many international betting sites allow payments using cryptocurrencies. This means it bridges the gap of currency conversion. It also offers a high level of anonymity and privacy.

Bank Transfer via Third-Party Services: Bank transfers are another popular method in the Emirates. They are often facilitated through third-party services like Trustly.

Payment Options	Deposit Time	Withdrawal Time	Deposit Limits (AED)	Withdrawal Limits (AED)
Visa	Up to 2 Hours	Up to 2 Hours	5 – 10000	5 – 10000
E-Wallets	Instant to 2 hours	Instant to 2 hours	10 – 10000	10 – 10000
Paysafecard	Up to 2 hours	Up to 2 hours	10 – 5000	N/A
Bitcoin	10 – 30 Minutes	10 – 30 Minutes	50 – 10000	50 – 10000
Trustly	Instant to 24 hours	Instant to 24 hours	5 – 5000	5 – 5000

The Future of Online Betting in the United Arab Emirates

Online betting in the United Arab Emirates might see changes in anti-gambling regulations. An increase in economic interest in diversifying away from oil dependency. Confidential discussions suggest interest in exploring the gambling sector, with predictions of significant revenue generation.

However, Islamic law strictly prohibits gambling, posing a significant challenge to legalization. Dubai is known for luxury and tourism. It could greatly benefit from legalized gambling. The gambling market is expected to reach $1.3 billion by 2026. This will be made possible by growth driven by online platforms, mobile gaming, and interest from affluent tourists.

With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4%, the sports betting industry in the Middle East and Africa is expected to reach USD 11,142.38 million by 2030.

Responsible Play in Sports Betting in the United Arab Emirates

In the UAE, responsible gaming is important because the rules are strict. It's vital to know these rules well. When betting, it's good to set a money limit that you can afford. This helps you spend only a little.

Betting should be for fun, not to make money. Watch out for signs of betting too much, like thinking about it all the time or borrowing money for it. Taking breaks while betting helps you think clearly. Also, don't bet if you've had alcohol or drugs.

Some places in the UAE, like the Ministry of Community Development, help with betting problems. Another organization set up to tackle gambling addiction is the National Rehabilitation Centre. These organizations give advice and help. Betting safely means keeping it fun and not letting it cause problems.

Betting in the United Arab Emirates: Conclusion

Sports betting in the United Arab Emirates presents a unique landscape due to its strict legal framework. Despite the challenges, specific international platforms offer opportunities for those interested in online betting. These platforms cater to various preferences, ensuring users enjoy a diverse betting experience.

Sportaza: Broad range of sports with safety measures🏆
Starda: User-friendly interface and reliable performance 🌐
BetBeast: Vast array of sports markets and secure betting options 🌟
Rabona: High safety standards and diverse betting markets 🏇
22BET: Sports numerous cryptocurrencies and languages 🌍

It is crucial to engage in responsible gambling while betting in the UAE. Set a budget. Stick to the budget. Rather than being a means of generating income, gambling should be enjoyed. We wish all United Arab Emirates bettors an exciting and responsible gaming experience. Make accountable and wise decisions while taking pleasure in the excitement of sports betting.

Team Members

Martins Lasmanis
CEO
With more than 10 years of experience in online marketing, and special focus on the gambling affiliation sector over 5 years, Martin Lasmanis is a true expert in his niche. Today, Martin's vision is to build the largest lead generator company in the world. Fortunately, we have the perfect team to make his dream come true!
Arturs Korolkovs
Head of Affiliates
Marketing specialist with 3 years of experience in affiliate and social media marketing in the iGaming industry. His deep understanding of the industry and a proven track record of driving growth make him an important "player" on the team.

FAQ. Frequently Asked Questions

Is betting legal in the United Arab Emirates?
Betting on sports is illegal primarily in the UAE.
How can I bet online safely in the UAE?
Use a VPN to stay hidden and safe. This is important because betting online is illegal in the UAE.
What payment methods are best for online betting in the UAE?
Use payment options like e-wallets. You can also use cryptocurrencies. These do not directly link your bank with betting companies.
What should I look for in a UAE sports betting site?
Pick safe and reliable sites that offer many sports. They must have good customer support. It should also let you bet on your phone.
Are there risks with online betting sites in the UAE?
Yes, there's a risk of unsafe sites since there's no strict control. Always choose well-known sites and have good reviews.

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🌍 Country	United Arab Emirates
👌 Language	Arabic
💲 Currency	UAE Dirham (AED)
⚽ Popular sports	Football, horse racing, camel racing
⚖️ Is betting legal	No
🏢 Regulator	No
🧾 Gambling taxes	No
💳 Most popular payment methods	MasterCard, VISA, Skrill, Paysafecard, Neteller