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Main provisions of Egyptian Civil Law No. 131 (1948)
Egypt's legal framework, particularly concerning gambling and internet use, is complex and multifaceted. Although there are general laws governing these activities, there is a significant gap in legislation specifically addressing online gambling.
Egyptian players interested in online gambling often turn to foreign online casinos. These online casino sites operate in a legal limbo within Egypt: they are not outright banned, recognized, or regulated by existing Egyptian laws.
This situation points to a broader context in which Egyptian Civil Law No. 131 (1948) operates. While this law encompasses a range of civil matters, its provisions do not directly address the rapidly evolving domain of internet-based activities, including online gambling.
As such, understanding this law's main provisions provides insight into Egypt's legal environment, especially in areas where traditional legal principles intersect with modern digital realities.
The Egyptian Civil Law No. 131 of 1948, specifically under Section 1 titled "Gambling and Betting," includes critical articles that regulate gambling contracts in Egypt. Article 739 of this law states that any agreement related to gambling or betting is considered void.
Additionally, it allows anyone who loses in gambling or betting to reclaim what they have paid within three years of the payment. They can prove such payment by all available means.
Article 740, on the other hand, provides exemptions for bets between persons personally participating in sports and legally authorized lotteries from the voiding provisions of Article 739.
Further, Article 24 of Law No. 8 of 2022, concerning Hotel and Tourism Entities, specifies that non-Egyptians may only play gambling games in designated facilities. This law mandates that the competent minister decide the conditions and controls for such gambling activities.
It also stipulates that the royalty from gambling activities should not exceed half of the revenues of new casinos in Egypt.
