Betting laws by country
Betting law differs sharply between countries. Bangladesh, India and Thailand do not allow online betting, Sri Lanka has a new licensing authority, and the UAE allows only operators licensed by its federal regulator.
Each country page sets out the main law, the penalties and the sources we rely on. None of it is legal advice.
5 countries
Sources linked
Not legal advice
By
Ethan Moore
Updated 6 Oct 2026
Comparison
Online betting by country
A foreign licence does not travel. What is lawful depends on the country you are in.
| Country | Online betting | Main law | Regulator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangladesh | Illegal | Gambling Prevention Act 2026 | None for betting |
| India | Banned | Online Gaming Act 2025 | MeitY |
| Sri Lanka | Licensing framework | GRA Act No. 17 of 2025 | Gambling Regulatory Authority |
| Thailand | No licences | Gambling Act 1935 | None for online |
| UAE | Licensed operators only | Decree-Law 31 of 2021 | GCGRA |
Summary of each country page; see those pages for sources.
Everything in Countries
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FAQ
Where is online betting legal?
It depends on the country. Some license it, others ban it. Our country pages set out the law in each, with sources.
Is online betting legal in Bangladesh?
No. The Gambling Prevention Act 2026 makes online gambling and online betting offences, and a foreign licence does not change that.
Does a foreign licence make a site legal everywhere?
No. A licence is valid in the country that issued it. Each country decides what is lawful for people there.
Are these pages legal advice?
No. They summarise the law from published sources. Take legal advice for your own situation.