As the popularity of online gambling continues to expand, many countries are legalizing this entertainment. At the same time, some states ban casinos or offer weird requirements for players. In most instances, gambling-related laws imply age limitations and a ban on illegal platforms, but they don’t work everywhere. From odd legal loopholes to laws based on ancient traditions or cultural peculiarities, industry regulations can be pretty strange. Here are some of the weirdest gambling laws from across the globe. Some will definitely make you laugh, while others may make you confused about how it’s actually possible in the modern era.
You Can Gamble in North Korea Unless You Are Local
The country is known for the strictest laws in multiple sectors, and foreigners often wonder how everything works. The gambling sector is an exciting topic to explore, especially in such a place as North Korea. Surprisingly, the state has several brick-and-mortar casinos, but residents aren’t allowed to visit them. On the contrary, visitors from other states don’t fall under these restrictions and can enjoy the thrill of slot machines and table games. The issue is truly absurd: gambling is considered a source of corruption, but the government still profits from offering casino services to foreigners.
Gambling Is Illegal in Japan, Except for When It Isn’t
One of the best-developed countries in the world pays special attention to gambling regulations, with this entertainment being completely prohibited in the region. However, locals have already found a legal loophole, which allows them to enjoy Pachinko. This traditional game is widespread in Japan: players purchase special tokens and use them to have fun. They eventually get the chance to win balls that they can later exchange for monetary rewards. Although these are clearly gambling activities, it doesn’t fall under the definition of what’s restricted in the country, making it possible for players to enjoy the adrenaline of Pachinko.
In Switzerland, Slots Are Banned in Public Places but Allowed in Casinos
The country has unique gambling laws: in 2005, it initiated a ban on all slots placed outside licensed casinos. Currently, locals and visitors don’t have a single chance to find a gaming machine in a bar, restaurant, or hotel lobby. However, in-state venues offer lots of thrilling content so that each passionate player can satisfy their cravings for gambling. Of course, like in many other jurisdictions, only people over 18 can enter these high-risk destinations.
India Still Sticks to the 1867 Regulatory Act
India is one of the most lucrative target markets for international casino operators, with over 130 million people reported they gamble regularly. However, industry laws aren’t advanced. While many countries have outdated regulations, India is the leader, as it still adheres to the 1867 document:
- Games of chance and games of skill have clear distinctions and are treated differently by the government
- Players can enjoy real-money poker online in Maharashtra, but setting up a poker room in Delhi can get them a court notice
- Some states don’t prohibit horse racing and lotteries, which are legal and controlled
- Despite cricket being a nationwide obsession, wagering on the Indian Premier League is banned
States like Goa and Sikkim are already working on improving local laws, but other regions haven’t made any moves yet. Users can freely join international betting platforms; 1 xBet is among the popular choices, as this brand is licensed and has operated in the industry since its early days. Still, enhancements in regulations are under discussion.
In the UAE, People Caught Gambling Can Get in Jail
Like in many other Islamic states, gambling is strictly prohibited in the United Arab Emirates. Both online and offline casinos and bookmakers, and even fantasy sports, fall under this ban. While laws may be more flexible for tourists, locals who are caught participating in gambling-related activities risk being imprisoned. It’s worth noting that getting around the restriction through using VPNs or cryptocurrencies is barely possible. Authorities thoroughly monitor users’ Internet activities, which makes the UAE one of the main anti-gambling stances in the world.
In the UK, You Can Bet on Everything
Betting is a national passion in the UK, and despite multiple limitations, this entertainment is fully legal in the country. Users can access the best bookmaker websites with a few clicks and wager on anything. While most focus on sports like football or rugby, creative punters bet on royal baby names, celebrity divorces, the possibility of a UFO landing on the Earth, and even Elvis being found alive.
Gambling Is Legal on Cruises as Long as the Ship Is in International Waters
A casino cruise has long been a popular entertainment option, and not without reason. Being in international waters eliminates any jurisdiction’s bans on casinos and betting, allowing players to take advantage of all forms of this activity. This means you could leave Miami under U.S. law, but once you’re far enough out, the onboard casino switches on, and suddenly you’re gambling under the laws of Panama or the Bahamas. It’s a legal loophole that floating casinos have mastered.
