No, sports betting apps are illegal in Saudi Arabia under Sharia law and the 2012 Anti-Gambling Act. The General Authority for Entertainment (GAE) and the Ministry of Interior prohibit all forms of wagering, including digital platforms. Enforcement targets both operators and users, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Sports Betting Apps in Saudi Arabia
- Absolute Prohibition: The 2012 Anti-Gambling Act criminalizes all betting activities, including sports wagering, with no legal exceptions. The law applies to both physical and digital platforms, covering apps and online operators.
- GAE Enforcement: The General Authority for Entertainment (GAE), established in 2016, oversees entertainment-related activities but explicitly excludes betting. Apps operating under GAE licenses cannot facilitate gambling, and non-compliance risks immediate shutdowns.
- Cybercrime Penalties: The 2007 Cybercrime Law criminalizes online gambling promotion, with Article 36 imposing up to 5 years imprisonment and fines up to SAR 5 million for facilitating or participating in betting activities. VPN usage to bypass restrictions is also penalized.