Online poker is not regulated under Moroccan law, leaving it in a legal gray area. Morocco's gambling framework, established under Dahir No. 1-65-206 in 1966, authorizes land-based casinos, lotteries, and sports betting, but does not address online gambling activities (1). The absence of licensing procedures for internet-based gaming means online poker platforms operate without formal legal recognition or oversight from Moroccan authorities.
Land-based poker can be played in licensed casinos located in tourist destinations such as Marrakech, Agadir, and El Jadida. These casino facilities primarily cater to foreign tourists, though Moroccan citizens are not explicitly prohibited from participation (1). The state manages gambling through three monopolies: SOREC oversees horse race betting, MDJS controls sports betting and scratchcard lotteries, and Loterie Nationale manages draw-based lottery products.
"La Marocaine des Jeux et des Sports (MDJS) is a public company with a mission whose raison d'être is, like any state lottery throughout the world, to supervise the activity of sports betting and lotteries by channeling the population of players towards a legal and responsible offer to the benefit of society."
Morocco's unregulated online gambling sector results in residents frequently accessing offshore platforms for poker and other casino games. The minimum age for legal gambling in Morocco is 18 years (1). La Marocaine des Jeux et des Sports operates as the state authority supervising sports betting and lottery activities through licensed operators (2). Despite ongoing discussions about implementing online gambling regulations, no licensing framework has been established for internet gaming operations.
Source:
https://globalgamblingnews.com/morocco-a-unique-approach-to-gambling-regulation/
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211230005321/en/Morocco-The-MDJS-is-Seeking-a-New-Operator-to-Manage-its-Sports-Betting
Last updated: 09-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
