A survey undertaken by Dubai Casinos, proclaiming itself to be the vanguard in the realm of casino guidance and expertise in the UAE, about the idea of legalising casinos in the emirate has revealed that 42.2 percent of the respondents opposed such a move. The main reason cited was the potential clash between Emirati culture and the gambling scene.
But 28.8 percent were neutral and given the sensitivity of the issue in the UAE, some respondents expressed concerns about voicing their opinions publicly.
A representative group comprising 28.8 percent supported the legalization of casinos. Given the increasing number of expats in Dubai and the evolving lifestyle, this shift could lead to the formation of alternative perspectives.
Overall, the majority of participants (59.6 percent) expressed support for the idea, citing the potential positive impact on Dubai’s economy. This section feels that the establishment of casinos could also benefit other Emirates in the UAE.
The survey covered over 10,000 individuals and received feedback from 3,000 respondents. The primary focus of the survey was to get public opinion on the ongoing debate surrounding the potential legalization of casinos and gambling in the country.
Casinos have never been a part of the UAE’s reality, making this topic entirely new, particularly for local residents. But since 2023, the legalization of gambling and the potential establishment of casinos in certain Emirates have become hotly debated topics in the UAE.
One of the key aspects of this debate is the cultural perspective, as gambling is generally prohibited by Islamic law. Full report here.
Also published on Medium.
