Sports betting in the Maldives is encompassed by the country’s broad prohibition on gambling. Under Maldivian law, all games of chance—including sports wagering—are criminalized in accordance with Shari’ah principles reflected in national legislation (1).
The primary legal framework governing this prohibition is the Maldives Penal Code, which makes it illegal to operate or participate in any form of betting. No domestic sportsbook licenses are issued, and online platforms offering sports bets are routinely blocked by local authorities (2).
"The Maldives, an Islamic nation, prohibits gambling in all its forms. This ban extends to sports betting, including cricket, aligning with the country’s religious principles and legal framework." (2)
Enforcement is carried out by the Financial Intelligence Unit and law enforcement agencies, with penalties ranging from significant fines to imprisonment for operators and bettors alike. The emphasis on compliance with both national law and Islamic jurisprudence ensures strict oversight (1).
Source:
https://apgml.org/includes/handlers/get-document.ashx?d=48c4d504-09f3-4370-98c3-d7443718a21d
https://www.thecricketpanda.com/cricket-betting-banned-countries/
Last updated: 28-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
