Dubai strictly adheres to Islamic law, which prohibits gambling and casinos. Unlike some other destinations, Dubai does not have legal casinos or gambling establishments within its borders. The UAE, including Dubai, has a strong stance against gambling due to its cultural and religious beliefs.
You will find a lot of illegal bets going around the race tracks, but going in on these activities isn't advisable. You could end up in prison for up to 2 years and/or be penalized for an amount of AED 20,000 (INR 4,00,000 or USD 4,500). But there are 2 racecourses where gambling is, in fact, legal.
- Nad Al Sheba Racecourse
- Jebel Ali Racecourse
Enthusiastic tourists often tend to land in illegally operated casinos and can easily fall prey to being mugged by these establishments or could be caught by the cops and imprisoned. This is a risk not worth taking.
Gambling Laws in Dubai
If a tourist is caught gambling, Article 121 of the same section states, “If a foreigner has been sentenced to a custodial penalty in a felony or misdemeanor, the court may call in its judgment for the deportation of the convicted foreigner from the state. Deportation orders shall also apply to felonies perpetrated on the honor. The court may, in cases of misdemeanors, order the commutation of a custodial penalty stated for a misdemeanor to deportation”.
These are serious laws and one should be quite aware of them before indulging in any such activities.
Online Casinos in Dubai
Dubai, in adherence to its cultural and religious beliefs, does not have legal casinos. Travelers seeking gambling experiences will need to explore options in nearby countries that permit gambling or consider alternative forms of entertainment available within the UAE, such as horse racing events. Respecting the local laws and embracing the unique cultural experiences Dubai has to offer is the key to a memorable and enjoyable trip.