Online poker is strictly prohibited in the United Arab Emirates under Federal Law No. 3 of 1987, also known as the UAE Penal Code. Gambling, referred to as Maisir in Arabic, is considered haram under Islamic law, and this religious principle is deeply embedded in the UAE's legal system (1). Article 414 stipulates imprisonment of two years or a fine of not more than AED 50,000 for anyone found gambling, while Article 415 prescribes imprisonment of up to ten years for operating gambling establishments.
The UAE has enacted stringent cybercrime laws to combat online gambling proliferation through Law No. 5 of 2012 on Combating Cybercrimes. Article 38 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 prescribes imprisonment and fines ranging from AED 250,000 to AED 500,000 for those who establish, manage, or promote gambling activities online (2). The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority actively monitors and restricts access to gambling websites, with individuals caught participating in online gambling facing legal repercussions including imprisonment, substantial fines, and deportation for expatriates.
"Gambling, or Maisir in Arabic, is considered haram, meaning forbidden, under Islamic law, and this religious principle is deeply embedded in the UAE's legal system."
Despite the comprehensive ban, the UAE established the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority in September 2023 to oversee commercial gaming operations (1). While gambling officially remains illegal under federal law, the GCGRA has begun accepting applications and issuing licenses for regulated gaming activities. However, these developments do not extend to online poker for residents, and tourists should be particularly cautious as activities legal in their home countries can lead to serious legal consequences in the UAE.
Source:
https://aladllegal.com/news/uaes-gambling-laws-prohibition-consequences-and-ex/
https://aklawoffices.in/blogs/laws-surrounding-online-gaming-in-dubai/
Last updated: 10-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
