BetOnline Poker
- Poker
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Live Dealer
- Baccarat
- Great gaming library
- Numerous tournaments
- Hefty welcome bonus
- Additional bonuses for crypto users
The United Arab Emirates, also known as simply the UAE, is a collection of former states that banded together in 1971 to form a single country. Although the UAE has a population of 9.2 million, only 1.4 million are citizens, with 7.8 million being expatriates. In spite of the country’s small size geographically, they have the seventh largest oil reserves in the world and also the seventh highest per capita GDP in the world, so it’s one of the wealthiest spots on the planet overall.
With all this wealth, would make the UAE particularly suitable for gambling, particularly in Dubai, which attracts a lot of tourists. However, gambling is prohibited in the UAE and strictly prohibited at that.
So while some countries have a pretty complex set of gambling laws, it doesn’t get any simpler than in the United Arab Emirates; you aren’t allowed to gamble on anything, period. This is a strictly Muslim country, and they take the strictest view of gambling that Muslim countries take.
Is Online Poker Legal in The United Arab Emirates?
Online poker is a hugely popular pastime all over the world, but its legal status can be somewhat confusing. In the United Arab Emirates, the situation is particularly complex, as there are a number of factors to consider.
Firstly, gambling is strictly forbidden in the UAE, meaning that any form of poker playing would technically be illegal. However, there is a notable exception for social games played within the home. This means that, technically speaking, playing online poker in the UAE is only against the law if you are doing so in a public place.
That said, it should be noted that the UAE’s internet infrastructure is not particularly robust, meaning that online poker players may experience some difficulties accessing international sites. Additionally, it should be borne in mind that the UAE has strict laws regarding online banking and payments, so it may not be possible to fund your poker playing in this manner. As such, anyone considering playing online poker in the UAE should research the legalities thoroughly before proceeding.
Best Online Poker Sites in The United Arab Emirates for 2024
Online poker is a great way to stay entertained while also winning some money. If you’re living in the United Arab Emirates, there are plenty of online poker sites available to you. However, not all of them are created equal. To help you find the best online poker site for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the top five sites in the UAE for 2024.
BetOnline Poker
- Poker
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Live Dealer
- Baccarat
- Great gaming library
- Numerous tournaments
- Hefty welcome bonus
- Additional bonuses for crypto users
Ignition Poker
- Poker
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Live Dealer
- Baccarat
- A lucrative welcome bonus
- Plenty of regular promotions
- A great VIP scheme
- Accepts cryptocurrencies
Everygame Poker
- Poker
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Live Dealer
- Baccarat
- Host of cash games and tournaments
- Great welcome bonus
- Game variety
- Good loyalty program
How to Choose the Best Online UAE Poker Site
When it comes to choosing the best online UAE poker site, there are a few things you need to take into consideration.
Promotions and Bonuses
There are loads of online poker sites out there, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. And one of the great things about playing online is that many sites offer promotions and bonuses to new players. These can include deposit bonuses, which give you extra cash to play with when you make your first deposit.
Before signing up for an online poker site, it’s beneficial to check if that site offers any free tickets to tournaments or other prizes. By doing so, you can be confident you’re taking advantage of the best deal possible.
Variety of Games
When choosing an online poker site, make sure to find one with several games. That way, you’ll never get bored.
If money is tight, look for a site that has cheaper games. That way, you can still enjoy yourself without risking too much money. On the other hand, if you’re willing to spend more, look for a website with higher stakes games.
Customer Support
It’s crucial to have a dependable customer support team if you’re running into issues with a website. Try to find a site that offers 24/hour customer support, so someone will always be there to help when needed.
No matter what problem you’re experiencing, customer support will always be there to help get you back on your feet. From technical difficulties to game rule questions, the right site will have someone available 24/7 to ensure that your online poker experience is as smooth as possible.
Licensed and Trusted Rooms
The main thing you want to look for in an online poker site is that it’s licensed and credible, so you know your money will be safe.
If you’re looking to play online poker, take your time in choosing a site. Make sure that the site is licensed and has good security measures to protect your money.
History of Online Poker in The United Arab Emirates
Online poker has a long and storied history in the United Arab Emirates. The game was first introduced to the region by Arabian merchants who traded with Europe and Asia. These merchants brought with them not only goods, but also new ideas and technologies. Online poker quickly gained popularity among the merchant class, and soon spread to the rest of society.
The game became so popular that it was even mentioned in One Thousand and One Nights, a collection of Arabic folk tales. In recent years, online poker has become hugely popular in the UAE, with many local players competing in international tournaments. The game has also been featured in Arabic films and television shows. With its rich history and vibrant present, online poker is sure to remain popular in the UAE for many years to come.
The United Arab Emirates Poker and Gambling Laws
The United Arab Emirates have strict laws when it comes to poker and gambling. The main law which covers this is Federal Law No. 3 of 1987, The Penal Code. Article 321 of The Penal Code outlaws any kind of gambling in the UAE. The only exception to this law is if the gambling takes place in one of the three authorized casinos in the country. These casinos are located in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al-Khaimah. Even in these casinos, only those who are 21 years of age or older are allowed to gamble.
There are also a number of other restrictions in place, such as a ban on smoking and a dress code. Failure to comply with these laws can result in a fine or even imprisonment. For those who wish to gamble in the UAE, it is important to be aware of the laws before doing so.
The Future of Gambling in The United Arab Emirates
The country’s rapidly growing economy and increasing levels of tourism are likely to lead to calls for the legalisation of gambling, and the government has indicated that it is open to the idea. This would have a major impact on the gambling industry, making The UAE one of the most lucrative markets in the world.
However, any change is unlikely to happen overnight, and there will be considerable debate before any decision is made. For now, gambling remains illegal in The UAE, but it is definitely something to keep an eye on in the future.
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