Despite strict prohibitions, Libya's online gambling market continues to grow.

Despite Libya's long-standing strict ban on gambling, its **online gaming market is still quietly expanding**. Market growth is mainly driven by the proliferation of smartphones, the rise of esports, and offshore gaming platforms.

According to industry estimates, there are about **1.25 million active online players** in Libya, participating in various mobile gaming and online gambling activities. Since 1953, Articles 492-495 of the Libyan Penal Code have explicitly prohibited gambling, criminalizing both physical and online gaming. The **Cybercrime Law** passed in 2022 further strengthened these restrictions, allowing authorities to block websites and impose fines or imprisonment.

However, the latest report from **6Wresearch** shows that driven by "mobile-first gaming, increased internet coverage, and young people's proficiency in digital technology," the Libyan iGaming market is still growing. Nearly 60% of Libya's approximately **6.8 million residents are under the age of 30**, making mobile gaming, online gambling, and esports particularly popular among this demographic structure.

**Market Status**

**Sports betting** is the mainstay of the market, with a particular focus on international football and regional sports events;

**Online casino games** (slots, roulette, blackjack) are mainly provided through offshore platforms such as Megapari, Rabona, and Betwinner;

**Poker and cloud esports** (such as "PUBG Mobile" and "Valorant") are increasingly popular among young players.

**Underground Gambling Still Active**

The report points out that small **unauthorized gambling shops** still exist in cities such as Tripoli, Benghazi, and Misurata. Although fragmented, underground gambling, together with international offshore platforms, jointly promote market diversification.

Mobile devices dominate the market, thanks to the widespread use of smartphones and about **62% 4G network coverage**. PCs are mainly used in internet cafes or for esports activities. Players often rely on **VPNs, cryptocurrencies, and virtual cards** to bypass banking restrictions and access offshore platforms.

**Market Outlook**

Libya presents a clear paradox: the public's desire for gambling is curbed by strict legal and infrastructure restrictions. Although the market is underground, the young population, technological development, and cultural curiosity indicate that the **electronic gambling industry still has potential for continued expansion**.