Kuwaiti authorities have announced the dismantling of a network that, according to investigators, was engaged in online gambling and facilitated the illegal transfer of profits abroad. The network was reportedly at the center of large-scale money laundering operations, using various channels to move funds.
According to Kuwait Times, the network funneled money through trading outlets, delivery services, beauty salons, and perfume shops.
The outlet added that as a result of the bust, around KD 153,837 (≈£373,805) was seized, while funds transferred from abroad via unofficial channels totaled KD 25,000 (≈£60,750).
The Ministry of Interior stressed that the arrests and referrals to the public prosecutor are part of a broader strategy to combat illegal gambling.
Authorities reported that key figures in the network were based in Turkey. Officials emphasized that “nobody is above the law when it comes to fighting gambling.”
Kuwait’s laws on gambling are extremely strict: gambling is prohibited, and participation is punishable by fines and imprisonment. Laundering proceeds from such activities also carries serious government sanctions.
Efforts to legalize gambling in Kuwait were attempted in 2014, but the initiative quickly lost momentum. At that time, politician Waleed Al-Nasser proposed legalization as a way to boost the economy and diversify the tourism sector.
Since then, the Middle East has seen significant changes. In the UAE, gambling regulation has been gradually developing. In 2024, the federal authority GCGRA (General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority) was established to oversee all commercial gaming activities in the country.
Nonetheless, despite this expansion of regulation, operators and suppliers planning to enter the UAE market have been advised to prepare for tough conditions.
He stated: “The UAE is in the early stages of regulated gaming, and the legal and regulatory framework is still very much evolving. Operators looking to enter the UAE market should stay abreast of all legislative and policy updates, build relationships with government agencies, local partners, and community leaders to understand cultural sensitivities and regulatory expectations.
“The UAE is likely to adopt a highly regulated and tightly controlled model, with a strong emphasis on anti-money laundering, responsible gambling, and social safeguards. Operators must be prepared to meet stringent compliance standards.
“The UAE is also a conservative society with unique cultural and religious considerations. Marketing, product offerings, and customer engagement must be tailored accordingly. Any investment in the UAE market needs to be a long-term one, with investment in local talent, training and infrastructure necessary.”
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