Poker and all forms of gambling are strictly prohibited in Iraq under the Iraqi Penal Code of 1969 (2). The law explicitly prohibits all gambling activities, making both participation and operation criminal offenses (2). No legal casinos, betting shops, or poker rooms are permitted anywhere in Iraq (2). The prohibition stems from both secular legal principles and Islamic law influences that forbid gambling (2). Iraq has no licensing regime for gambling operators (2).
Online poker is also illegal in Iraq, though not specifically mentioned in the Penal Code (1). The general gambling prohibition extends to all forms including digital platforms (2). The government actively blocks access to online gambling websites and conducts periodic crackdowns on illegal operations (2). However, enforcement remains inconsistent due to political instability, and online gambling is highly unregulated (1). Underground gambling venues exist but face periodic raids and closures (2).
"All forms of gambling, including land-based and online, are explicitly illegal under Iraq's 1969 Penal Code. There is no licensing regime for gambling operators; no legal casinos or betting shops are permitted in Iraq."
Severe penalties apply for gambling violations in Iraq. Both players and operators face fines and imprisonment (2). No dedicated gambling regulatory authority exists; enforcement falls under the Ministry of Interior's jurisdiction (2). The Iraqi government launched extensive campaigns against gambling halls, notably in Baghdad during August 2019, resulting in closures and approximately 120 arrests of employees and visitors (1). There are no legal dispute resolution avenues for gambling-related matters (2).
Source:
https://iraqbet.com/en/iraq-casinos
https://legalpilot.com/country/iraq/
Last updated: 04-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
