Development of Online Gambling in Bahrain Despite the Ban

Bahrain, a Middle Eastern island nation located east of Saudi Arabia in the Persian Gulf, is one of the wealthiest Arab countries, with oil and gas as its main sources of wealth. Additionally, Bahrain is an attractive tourist destination.

The total revenue from inbound tourism increased by 48% in the first half of 2023, reaching 924 million Bahraini Dinars (approximately $2.5 billion USD) compared to 623 million BD (around $1.7 billion USD) for the same period in 2022.

Despite being one of the richest countries in the world with a high average annual income, gambling in Bahrain, as in many other Islamic states, is prohibited.

Some Muslim countries allow certain forms of betting or gambling to raise funds for social welfare, but in Bahrain, betting on blood sports, fantasy football, lotteries, etc., are illegal. Despite these prohibitions, the gambling industry in Bahrain continues to grow. How is this happening?

Are Gambling Activities Legal in Bahrain?

No, they are not. The Kingdom of Bahrain is a Muslim country whose laws are based on Islamic faith and Sharia principles. Sharia laws comprise fundamental concepts of Islam and act as a code of life that all Muslims are expected to follow.

According to Sharia laws, gambling is prohibited because it is considered a type of game without any serious purpose or benefit.

Gambling Laws in Bahrain

According to Bahrain's Penal Code, Article 308 on "Gambling" states:

• Any person who plays a game for money in a public place is subject to imprisonment for up to three months or a fine not exceeding 100 Bahraini Dinars.
• Any repeat offender within a year from the date of the final judicial decision against them is subject to imprisonment for no more than one year or a fine not exceeding 500 BD.
• Any person who operates a gambling site in any capacity is subject to imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to 500 BD.
• Any game that depends on luck rather than factors you can control will be considered gambling.

Prohibited, Yet Possible

As we see, Bahrain enforces strict laws against gambling for money. However, despite these prohibitions, online casino games are gaining popularity in the country, largely because a significant number of residents and tourists enjoy this form of entertainment. So, how is it possible to engage in these activities without breaking the law? Spoiler – it's not entirely legal, but...

1. Online Gambling is NOT Mentioned in the Country’s Penal Code

The laws mentioned above do not include a clause about gambling or online casinos in Bahrain. However, this does not mean they are legal. Since all forms of gambling are prohibited, the same applies to their online versions. But players can still access offshore casino sites, regulated outside of Bahrain, from the comfort of their homes.

These casino sites use external licenses from government institutions, providing their clients with proper security and confidentiality, enabling them to place bets and gamble without breaking the law.

Since these casino sites are legally based abroad, they can accept players from Bahrain without any issues.

However, only non-residents are allowed to place bets on these sites; for Bahraini citizens, it is still illegal.

2. Using VPN to Access Offshore iGaming Operators

Bahrain employs an extremely thorough internet censorship program, blocking all gambling-related websites at the internet service provider level. Nevertheless, users access foreign sites through VPNs to connect to offshore gambling operators.

However, it's important to remember that anyone using a VPN for gambling does so at their own risk, as player protection is nonexistent. Moreover, since there are no clear laws regulating online gambling, the potential consequences are uncertain.

Online Casinos Accepting Players from Bahrain

888Casino

A licensed online casino operating for over 20 years, regulated by the London Stock Exchange (LSE). The casino offers high-quality gambling games, regular promotions, a variety of banking options, efficient customer support, and various VIP programs.

Betway

A great choice for international players, offering easy access, security, and reliability. Launched in 2005, this gambling company collaborates with leading software providers such as Microgaming, Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and others. Betway features jackpots, non-progressive slots, table games, and live dealer games.

Betfinal

This online sports betting platform was launched in 2013 and is licensed in Curaçao. It meets international security standards. Betfinal's website offers a wide range of casino games and sports betting options. It allows betting on virtual sports or live game streams. Betfinal also has a mobile app for iOS and Android users.

Thus, despite legislative prohibitions in the field of gambling, online gambling exists in Bahrain. Players use VPNs and electronic wallets, allowing them to relatively safely enjoy their hobby.