Sports betting in Pakistan is unequivocally prohibited under national legislation. The Prevention of Gambling Act, 1977 (Act No. XXVIII of 1977) governs all forms of gambling, including betting on sports or games of chance (1).
Under this Act, a “common gaming house” includes venues offering betting activities; operating or visiting such premises attracts penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. Furthermore, provinces enacted their own ordinances based on the British Public Gambling Act, 1867, reinforcing a blanket ban on wagering (2).
"Any person who, whether for stakes or not, plays or bets in a common gaming house shall be punishable with fine which may extend to five thousand rupees, or with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year, or with both." (1)
While the federal statute does not explicitly mention online or mobile betting platforms, digital wagering falls under the same provisions, and authorities have blocked websites and prosecuted individuals facilitating internet gambling. Despite the legal prohibition, underground betting remains prevalent, particularly on cricket matches (2).
Source:
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1491542668_144.pdf
https://pakistancode.gov.pk/english/UY2FqaJw1-apaUY2Fqa-ap4%3D-sg-jjjjjjjjjjjjj
Last updated: 22-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
