Poker and all forms of gambling are strictly prohibited in Iran under Islamic law. Gambling has been banned since the 1979 revolution due to Islamic laws that classify gambling as a major sin (1). The Islamic Penal Code governs gambling prohibition, with Article 705 stating that gambling by any means is forbidden (1). Offenders face sentences of one to six months imprisonment or up to 74 lashes, and public gambling results in both punishments (2).
Online poker falls under Iran's comprehensive gambling prohibition despite not being explicitly mentioned in the law. The government blocks online poker sites and restricts related financial transactions (1). While the Islamic Penal Code does not specifically mention online gambling, existing regulations are applied to it as well (1). However, authorities typically do not pursue residents who play on offshore online sites, though the activity remains illegal (1).
"Gambling has been banned in Iran since the 1979 revolution due to Islamic laws that classify gambling as a major sin. The prohibition is outlined in the Islamic Penal Code of the Islamic Republic of Iran."
The penalties for gambling in Iran are severe and reflect the country's strict adherence to sharia law. Anyone who sets up a gambling house or invites people to such places faces six months to two years imprisonment or fines ranging from three million to twelve million Rials (2). All gambling tools and cash are destroyed or confiscated (2). Iran has produced notable poker players like Antonio Esfandiari and Hossein Ensan, though both left the country to pursue professional poker careers abroad (1).
Source:
https://www.pokerlistings.com/blog/five-countries-where-playing-poker-is-strictly-prohibited
https://iranhrdc.org/islamic-penal-code-of-the-islamic-republic-of-iran-book-five
Last updated: 04-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
