Government Steps Up Action Against Illegal Online Betting
Egyptian authorities have intensified efforts to curb unregulated digital gambling by moving to block online betting applications operating within the country. The decision reflects growing concern among lawmakers over the rapid spread of offshore betting platforms that continue to attract local users despite strict national gambling laws. Officials say the move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen digital oversight and close legal loopholes that have allowed illegal operators to flourish.
The initiative was confirmed by Ahmed Badawy, Head of the Communications and Information Technology Committee in Egypt’s House of Representatives, who stated that the government is coordinating with relevant regulatory and enforcement bodies to shut down electronic betting platforms accessible to Egyptian users.
Strict Gambling Laws Clash With Digital Reality
Gambling in Egypt is highly restricted under existing legislation. Land-based casinos are permitted to operate only under specific conditions, allowing access exclusively to foreign passport holders and transactions conducted in foreign currency. Egyptian citizens are prohibited from participating, reflecting the country’s long-standing regulatory and cultural stance on gambling.
However, the rise of digital platforms has disrupted this framework. Online and mobile betting apps, often operated by offshore companies, have exploited gaps in enforcement to offer services to Egyptian users without licenses, regulation, or consumer safeguards. Platforms such as 1XBet have reportedly gained significant traction, operating beyond the reach of local authorities.
Social and Financial Risks Drive Legislative Response
Lawmakers have raised concerns about the social and economic impact of unregulated online betting, particularly among young people. According to officials, the ease of access to betting apps and digital payment systems has contributed to increased financial losses, addiction risks, and exposure to fraud.
Badawy warned that many of these platforms operate entirely outside Egypt’s legal framework, making it difficult to protect users or hold operators accountable. He emphasised that the absence of oversight creates serious risks, not only for individuals but also for national digital security and financial stability.
New Laws Aim to Close Loopholes Permanently
In response, Egypt’s Parliament is drafting amendments to existing cybercrime and telecommunications laws. These changes are intended to permanently block illegal betting applications, prevent operators from re-entering the market under new domain names or branding, and strengthen enforcement mechanisms.
The proposed legislation is also expected to introduce tougher deterrents, including penalties for individuals who engage with unlicensed betting platforms. Lawmakers argue that discouraging both operators and users is essential to effectively dismantle the illegal digital gambling ecosystem.
A Broader Push for Digital Regulation
The ban on online betting apps forms part of a wider effort by Egyptian authorities to assert greater control over the digital economy. By tightening regulations and improving coordination between government agencies, Egypt aims to reinforce legal clarity, protect consumers, and limit the influence of offshore digital services operating beyond national oversight.
As enforcement measures take shape, the move signals a clear message: Egypt intends to bring its digital gambling landscape firmly under regulatory control.
