United Arab Emirates Casino Bonuses

Welcome Bonuses

Web-based casinos that accept players from the UAE often welcome newcomers with generous Welcome Bonuses. These offers are usually substantial because they aim to capture the attention of new players. A Welcome Bonus typically consists of a match deposit bonus and free spins. To claim it, players must deposit a specified amount.

Reload Bonus

Online casinos reward their regular players with appealing reload bonuses. A minimum deposit is required to claim a reload bonus. Some gambling sites even include reload bonuses as part of their welcome packages. Designed for players who have already made at least one deposit, reload offers typically include free spins and a matched deposit bonus.

Cashback Bonus

Cashback bonuses are a relatively new concept, yet many web-based casinos have already added them to their promotional lineups to retain existing players. These offers help you recover from a losing streak. A casino cashback bonus is a reimbursement of a portion of the money you have lost within a specified period. The refund is not always tied to wagering requirements, and it is sometimes credited as real money.

VIP Program

Regular casino patrons can also enjoy various VIP rewards and exclusive bonuses. Web-based casinos operate different loyalty schemes, but the most common format is based on comp points. Players earn comp points whenever they place real-money wagers, and the total accumulated points determine their VIP level. Additionally, members can redeem comp points for bonus cash. Higher VIP tiers unlock more generous promotions and better comp-point conversion rates.

Important Bonus Terms to Consider

Casino bonuses have a cap on the maximum amount you can claim. Most promotions are subject to a wagering requirement, which you must fulfill before cashing out any profits. To clear the rollover, players should become familiar with the game weightings, as some games contribute more toward the requirement than others.

Emirati players must also observe a maximum bet limit while an active bonus is in play. In addition, bonuses usually expire after a certain period. If the wagering requirement is not met within the specified timeframe, the casino operator will forfeit both the bonus funds and any winnings generated from the promotion.

Legal Forms of Gambling in the United Arab Emirates

The Civil Code of the UAE is another piece of legislation related to gambling. Article 1013 states that competitions with prizes in running, shooting, sports, or other trials of strength are legal. However, specific conditions must be met for such competitions to be permissible; for example, the prize and the person providing it must be clearly described.

Betting on horse and camel racing is legal in the UAE because predicting race outcomes is regarded as a skill-based activity. Raffles and lotteries also comply with Sharia law. Physical lottery retailers operate only at Abu Dhabi International Airport, but Emirati residents can purchase tickets online. The most popular raffle in the country is the Big Raffle, while lottery games such as Mahzooz and Emirates Draw are widely enjoyed.

What About Online Gambling in the United Arab Emirates?

Under the Internet Access Management Regulatory Policy, Internet providers must block access for Emirati residents to websites that contain unacceptable content or promote gambling services. The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority oversees compliance with this policy.

Players from the United Arab Emirates are prohibited from using proxy servers to reach gambling sites. Moreover, web-based casinos explicitly ban VPN usage in their terms and conditions. In 2012, President Sheikh Khalifa issued Federal Legal Decree No.5 on combating cyber crimes. The decree stipulates penalties for anyone who creates or operates websites that send, transmit, publish, or promote gambling activities.

The First Land-Based Casino in the United Arab Emirates

In 2026, the first land-based casino in the United Arab Emirates, Wynn Marjan, is expected to open on Dream Island in Ras Al-Khaimah. Occupying 18,500 square meters, it will be among the world’s largest casinos. The venue is being developed by the Nevada-based gaming giant Wynn Resorts. The resort will feature 1,000 luxury rooms, 10 restaurants and lounges, a spa, retail outlets, a convention center, and a gaming area. The project was announced in 2022, along with the establishment of the Department of Entertainment and Gaming Regulation, which will oversee the resort’s gaming operations.

Rumors have also circulated about Dubai legalizing gambling to attract more tourists, but senior tourism official Issam Kazim has stated that no such plans exist. Interestingly, Caesars Palace Dubai remains the only Caesars Entertainment resort without a gaming floor.