Online bingo is strictly prohibited in Kuwait under the Penal Code (Articles 208-209) and Islamic law principles (1). All forms of gambling, including online bingo, are completely illegal in Kuwait with no exceptions for licensed offshore operators or any other circumstances. The prohibition applies equally to residents and foreign visitors, and the government maintains a zero-tolerance approach to all gambling activities. Kuwait has no gambling licensing framework, regulatory body, or any legal provision permitting online gambling operations (1).
Individuals caught participating in online bingo face criminal penalties under Articles 208-209 of the Kuwaiti Penal Code, including imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to 1,000 Kuwaiti Dinars (approximately USD 3,250) for organizing or participating in gambling (2). Additionally, anyone entering or visiting a gambling establishment faces imprisonment for up to three months and/or a fine of up to 300 Kuwaiti Dinars (approximately USD 975). Operators of illegal gambling facilities face more severe penalties. The Ministry of Interior's Criminal Investigations Department actively investigates all forms of gambling, both physical and online, and blocked over 3,000 unlicensed online gambling websites as of 2018 (2).
"Kuwait's legislation on gambling is straightforward: it doesn't permit any kind of gambling, including casinos, sports betting, poker, lottery, and other forms of gaming. As an Islamic country, the Kuwaiti attitude towards gambling is intrinsically linked with the way of life through Sharia law, wherein gambling has been classified as haram, a forbidden item."
Despite strict prohibitions and active enforcement, online gambling has gained popularity among younger Kuwaitis who access offshore platforms through virtual private networks (VPNs) (1). Market research shows significant hidden demand for online bingo and other gambling games, particularly among those under 35 years old. While some international platforms accept Kuwaiti players, doing so violates Kuwaiti law and exposes participants to legal consequences including prosecution, fines, and imprisonment. The government continues periodic crackdowns on illegal gambling operations and individuals selling virtual currency for online gambling. While a politician recently proposed legalizing gambling for tourists on designated resort beaches, such reform remains unlikely given Kuwait's strong Islamic values and the influence of religious leaders on policy. For now, the legal position is unambiguous: all forms of online bingo remain strictly forbidden under Kuwaiti law.
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulations-in-kuwait/
https://thinkcomputers.org/the-legal-landscape-of-online-gambling-in-kuwait/
Last updated: 31-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
