Egypt’s parliament is drafting amendments to the Cybercrime Law to explicitly criminalize online betting applications. The proposed legislation aims to close regulatory gaps regarding digital gambling platforms operating within the country.
Existing legislation prohibits gambling for citizens but lacks specific provisions for digital platforms. The new amendments will explicitly address electronic gambling and introduce stricter penalties. In cases involving organized criminal networks and large-scale fraud, sentences could reach life imprisonment.
Enforcement and App Blocking
Ahmed Badawi, chair of the House Communications and Information Technology Committee, stated in May 2026 that the government would submit these amendments. Earlier that year, regulatory authorities began a campaign to block approximately 80% of online betting applications. Russian-licensed 1xBet was removed from Google Play and the App Store in September 2024 following parliamentary recommendations.
Similar measures were applied to MelBet in early 2026.
The legislative push follows earlier efforts to address digital gambling. In January 2025, MP Martha Mahrous tabled a bill to criminalize electronic betting, describing the current legal framework as insufficient. She highlighted the rise of gambling addiction and the need for specific laws to regulate online platforms that currently operate through foreign licenses.