United Arab Emirates

Explore United Arab Emirates Poker: Laws, Events & Venues

he United Arab Emirates (UAE), known for its luxurious cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is a hub for tourism and business in the Middle East. The UAE is famous for its modern skyline, opulent hotels, and shopping experiences. However, when it comes to gambling, including poker, the UAE has strict regulations due to Islamic laws, which prohibit all forms of gambling.

In the UAE, poker tournaments and cash games are not legally available in traditional casinos, as gambling is outlawed. There are no licensed casinos or poker rooms in the country. This extends to online poker, which is also restricted, and there are heavy regulations in place regarding access to gambling websites. For residents and visitors looking to participate in poker, there are no sanctioned poker tournaments or legal poker venues within the UAE.

Despite these restrictions, the UAE remains a major destination for luxury and entertainment. Those looking to play poker or participate in tournaments typically travel to nearby countries like Cyprus, Georgia, or international destinations where poker is legal and flourishing. Some private or underground games might exist, but they are unregulated and illegal.

Online Poker in United Arab Emirates

Online Poker Legislation in the United Arab Emirates

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), all forms of gambling, including online poker, are strictly prohibited under Islamic law (Sharia). The country’s legal system enforces severe restrictions on both physical and digital gambling activities. This includes online poker, which falls under the general ban on gambling-related activities.

Best Online Poker Sites in United Arab Emirates

Crypto Friendly
CoinPoker
Independent

CoinPoker

4.8
RakebackFixed 33%
Bonus code
SMPBONUS
SMPBONUS
Good for beginners
KKPoker
Independent

KKPoker

4.2
Bonus100% up to $1,000
RakebackUp to 50%
Bonus code
17157
17157
Private Games
ClubGG App
GGPoker network

ClubGG App

4.3
Bonus-
RakebackUp to 60%
Bonus code
NO CODE
NO CODE

Live Poker in United Arab Emirates

Live Poker Legislation in the United Arab Emirates

Live poker in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), like all forms of gambling, is strictly prohibited under the country’s legal system, which follows Islamic law (Sharia). The UAE enforces a comprehensive ban on both land-based and online gambling activities, including live poker games in casinos or private settings.

Live Poker Venues in the United Arab Emirates

Key Points:

  • No Legal Poker Rooms or Casinos:
    The UAE does not allow any casinos or poker rooms to operate legally. All forms of gambling, including live poker, are completely banned.
  • Private or Underground Games:
    While some may attempt to organize private or underground poker games, these are illegal and carry significant legal risks. Participating in or hosting such games can lead to arrest, fines, imprisonment, and even deportation for expatriates.
  • Strict Penalties:
    The UAE imposes severe penalties for engaging in gambling activities, including live poker. This includes fines, imprisonment, and potential deportation for foreign nationals involved in illegal poker games.

Alternatives for Poker Players:

Since there are no legal poker venues in the UAE, many poker enthusiasts travel to nearby countries where poker is legal, such as:

These countries offer regulated poker rooms and tournaments for players looking to participate in live games.

In summary, there are no legal live poker venues in the UAE, and poker players must seek alternatives abroad to legally enjoy live poker games.

Google Map

Venues in United Arab Emirates

Events at United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates related news

Wynn Resorts Breaks New Ground in UAE with First-Ever Gambling License

Wynn Resorts Breaks New Ground in UAE with First-Ever Gambling License

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially taken its first major step into the world of legalized gambling, awarding Wynn Resorts the country’s first-ever commercial gaming operator’s license. This groundbreaking move, long anticipated by industry insiders, will allow the Las Vegas-based gaming giant to bring its signature brand of luxury casino resorts to Ras Al … Read more

10/19/2024
CapitalAbu Dhabi
Population9,856,000
CurrencyUnited Arab Emirates dirham [AED] د.إ
TimezoneUTC+04
Frequentlyaskedquestions

No, online poker is illegal in the UAE. All forms of gambling, including online poker, are prohibited under the country’s Islamic laws.

faq background