Sports betting in Djibouti operates within a complex legal framework that distinguishes between physical and online gambling activities. While physical sports betting is legal at state-approved venues, the country lacks comprehensive regulations specifically governing online sports betting activities (1). The regulatory environment in Djibouti is characterized by limited oversight, with the government maintaining licensing requirements for land-based gambling establishments but providing little guidance for digital betting platforms.
The legal landscape for sports betting in Djibouti is further complicated by cultural and religious considerations. Gambling activities are generally prohibited for local residents due to prevailing cultural and religious norms, as the majority of the population is Muslim and Islamic principles typically discourage gambling activities (2). However, the government has established a licensing system for physical gambling operations, with regulations that impose fines of 10,000 francs for operating unlicensed gambling establishments, indicating that a formal regulatory framework exists for licensed operations.
"While physical sports betting is legal at state-approved venues, the country lacks clear laws on online gambling, including online sports betting, creating regulatory uncertainty for operators."
The absence of specific online sports betting regulations creates a gray area for international and offshore betting operators targeting Djibouti residents. Since there are no explicit laws banning online sports betting, international platforms may operate in this regulatory vacuum, though without formal government oversight or consumer protection measures. This regulatory gap leaves both operators and bettors without clear legal guidance, highlighting the need for comprehensive legislation to address the growing digital gambling sector in Djibouti.
Source:
https://focusgn.com/africa/legal-gambling-in-africa-a-country-by-country-analysis
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-djibouti/
Last updated: 17-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
