Afghanistan operates under strict Islamic law, where all forms of gambling are explicitly prohibited. The country's legal framework is deeply rooted in Sharia principles, which categorically forbid gambling activities as haram (forbidden). This prohibition extends to all gambling formats, including online casinos, sports betting, and lottery games. The Taliban government, which regained control in 2021, has reinforced these restrictions, making Afghanistan one of the most restrictive countries globally regarding gambling activities (1).
The legal consequences for engaging in gambling activities in Afghanistan are severe and can include imprisonment, fines, and corporal punishment. There are no licensed or regulated gambling operators within the country, and accessing online gambling platforms from Afghanistan is illegal. The government actively blocks access to international gambling websites, and individuals caught participating in such activities face serious legal repercussions under Islamic law (2).
"Gambling is considered a major sin in Islam and is strictly forbidden under Sharia law. All forms of betting and games of chance are prohibited, as they are seen as promoting greed, causing financial harm, and leading to social problems within the community."
For Afghan citizens, there are no legal alternatives or regulated gambling options available domestically. The country does not issue gambling licenses, and there is no framework for legal online or land-based casinos. International online casino operators do not legally serve Afghan customers due to the country's prohibitive laws and the associated legal risks. The combination of religious law and government enforcement makes Afghanistan's stance on gambling among the most restrictive in the world.
Source:
Library of Congress - Gambling Laws: An Overview of Federal Criminal Law
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime - Islamic Criminal Law
Last updated: 13-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
