United Arab Emirates
Almost all Islamic countries prohibit gambling of every kind, but many turn a blind eye to online gambling or simply do not have regulations in place for this grey area. In the United Arab Emirates, however, any kind of gambling is prosecuted and players can serve up to two years in jail under the Penal Code’s Article 414. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority controls all Internet content and thus prevents access to online casinos.
Brunei
Another Islamic country with strict anti-gambling laws, Brunei enforces its Common Gaming House Act strongly. This strictly prohibits any form of gambling in the country.
Cambodia
Gambling addiction has historically been an issue for Cambodia and is now banned among its citizens in all formats. Government-sponsored gaming including 5 separately run private lotteries is permitted. The 1996 Suppression of Gambling Act that enforces this does not, however, apply to any foreigners in the country. Several casinos cater to tourists and generate significant revenue.
North Korea
Like Cambodia, North Korea strictly forbids online and offline gambling among its citizens but allows tourists to participate in these activities if they are on guided tours. There is currently only one casino in the country, located in Pyongyang.
Japan
All forms of gambling were prohibited in Japan until quite recently. Although several loopholes meant certain activities did take place.
Several racetracks are overseen either by the government or the Japan Racing Association. There are many legal Off-Track Betting Facilities for punters. Other sports betting activities are also permitted. The Integrated Resort Program Law of 2016 has allowed for land-based casino games for the first time. Online gambling, including IviBet, remains strictly illegal in Japan. However, casinos can now open in resorts as long as the facilities include entertainment venues, an international conference hall, and a hotel. Operators themselves are subject to very strict screening.
Cyprus
The 2012 Betting Law governs most Cypriot gambling. Slot and other terminal-based gaming is permitted, up to a maximum of 50 machines, but under 2015’s Casino Law land-based table games are allowed at the single casino, the Melco Cyprus Resort, whose completion is expected in 2019. Sports betting is the only form of gambling allowed online.
Qatar
Qatar is the strictest country of all when it comes to gambling laws. All forms of gambling activities are considered illegal, and even sports betting is not permissible. Unfortunately, this blanket ban has led to a thriving underground gambling scene, but many pay the price for being involved. Although online gambling is also deemed illegal there are still some who opt to do so, as access to foreign-based sites, although somewhat restricted by the government, is still possible.
Lebanon
In Lebanon, the law states that gambling of any kind that is unauthorized is illegal, and the government has the power to block online casinos too. Online gambling is only allowed at a designated online casino, and land-based gambling is facilitated at Casino du Liban in Jounieh. Additionally, a casino ship often takes players into international waters where they can gamble freely without the worry of breaking local laws.
Poland
Land-based and online gambling has historically been legal in Poland. They were controlled by strict government monopoly. Gambling with offshore operators is technically permitted but irregular.
