|
 Casino giants are keeping their eyes on the latest developments in the Middle East. Gambling has been pretty much off-limits in the area for quite some time but there are signs that the Muslim-dominated area of the world may someday be open to legalized wagering.
The Koran is pretty firm when it comes to gambling and as recent attacks in Egypt show many Muslims aren't particularly friendly when they see someone going against the book's laws. There are several small casinos in the Middle East but they keep things pretty low-key not wanting to anger religious police who may enforce their country's ban on gambling.
It's doubtful that casinos will have a presence in Saudi Arabia anytime soon, but there is hope for Bahrain. Bahrain which is ranked the 8th most decadent community in the world has been strongly affected by western culture and could be the perfect breading ground for gambling.
Those Middle Eastern nations who want to figure out a way to offer gambling without offending Muslims might look to Malaysia. Non-Muslims make up less than half of Malaysia's 25 million citizens but the country still allows for wagering on horse racing, slot machines, lottery tickets, and even full-blown casinos. Gambling has generated so much tax revenue for the country that they are now even looking into ways to legalize and regulate online gambling.
While widespreed gambling in the Middle East is still nothing but a pipe dream for casino owners there is no doubt that there are in roads to the market for those who are willing to walk on egg shells.
As always, stay tuned to Casinofan for more news and updates.
|
Subscribe to this comment's feed
