Online bingo is strictly illegal in Saudi Arabia under Islamic law (Sharia) and multiple national legislation frameworks (1). Saudi Arabia adheres to Sharia law, which categorizes gambling as "maisir" (forbidden sin) and considers it abhorrent and "the work of Satan" according to Quranic teachings (1). All forms of gambling—from casinos and sportsbooks to online bingo platforms—are completely banned with no state-licensed gambling operations in the Kingdom, whether terrestrial or virtual (1). The prohibition is absolute and enforced by multiple government agencies including the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) and law enforcement authorities (2).
Under Saudi Arabia's Cybercrime Laws and anti-gambling regulations, individuals who prepare, publish, or promote gambling material through information networks face imprisonment and substantial fines (1). Additionally, operators constructing or publishing websites to promote gambling activities violate public morals and face serious legal consequences (1). Those caught engaging in online bingo operations or organizing such activities may face imprisonment, fines, and permanent website shutdowns (1). The government employs advanced internet filtering technology to block access to gambling websites, with the CITC maintaining restrictions on millions of websites deemed undesirable, with gambling platforms being a significant portion (1).
"Gambling is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia, rooted in the country's adherence to Islamic law (Sharia). This prohibition extends to all forms of gambling, including traditional betting, online platforms, and lotteries. The laws governing gambling in Saudi Arabia reflect the nation's cultural and religious values, aiming to prevent activities considered exploitative, unethical, or harmful to society."
Residents of Saudi Arabia who attempt to access online bingo through offshore platforms risk serious legal consequences if discovered (2). While some residents use virtual private networks to bypass CITC censorship and access foreign betting sites, such activities remain criminal offenses with potential imprisonment and fines (2). The cultural and religious environment in Saudi Arabia deeply stigmatizes gambling beyond legal prohibitions, making participants subject to severe social judgment and community repercussions (2). The government focuses enforcement on organized gambling operations and websites promoting gambling while maintaining zero tolerance for all forms of online bingo participation, with authorities implementing enhanced detection methods to identify violators attempting to circumvent digital restrictions (1).
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-saudi-arabia/
https://sdlccorp.com/post/what-are-the-tax-implications-of-online-gambling-winnings-in-saudi-arabia/
Last updated: 01-11-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
