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Gaming is as popular in the Arab world as anywhere else. You can find busy arcades with flashing lights and exclusive gambling lounges where people enjoy various types of games. Traditional games are a key part of the culture, while modern digital games attract new players. Celebrities also influence gaming trends, especially in casino entertainment. Looking at this changing gaming scene reveals a mix of cultural traditions and new ideas. To gain deeper insight into Arabic gaming culture, I met with Zayed Al-Ansari, founder of the affiliate site Arabic-Casinos.org, to discuss retro games, arcades, and even casinos.
The Rise of Gaming Culture in the Arab World
Over the years, interest in gaming has grown across many communities. Arcades used to be social places where friends gathered to compete and enjoy exciting challenges. Later, home consoles and mobile devices created new ways to play, letting enthusiasts access their favorite experiences anytime. Advances in technology helped boost the popularity of interactive entertainment. High-speed internet, mobile apps, and virtual platforms opened new opportunities for engagement. Younger generations enjoy digital activities, while traditional pastimes remain important. This mix of old and new influences how people have fun with their favorite hobbies.
Traditional vs. Modern Gaming
Long before electronic entertainment, board games and strategic activities were a vital part of leisure. Backgammon, a game dating back centuries, remains popular among older generations of Arabs. Card games like Baloot and Tarneeb continue to bring people together for friendly competition.
As technology advanced, interest in digital experiences in the Arab region grew quickly. Console games, mobile apps, and online platforms offered new ways to engage with different styles of play. Competitive esports tournaments gained popularity, attracting large audiences eager to watch skilled players compete for victory. Popular multiplayer games like FIFA and PUBG became household names, fostering a lively gaming scene.
Popular Casino Games Among Middle Eastern Players & Influencers
My main question to Zayed was, of course, how the booming casino industry has been received, or not, within the Middle East, considering that gambling for money is illegal in most of the region. To my surprise, I learned that Arabic influencers within the gaming and gambling niche are already a phenomenon. Well-known figures often influence entertainment choices, including those related to gaming. Among high-profile individuals, casino experiences have gained attention. Whether through private gatherings or exclusive online platforms, many people enjoy the thrill of chance-based games.
Zayed has conducted extensive research on the gaming preferences of famous figures in the Arab world and collected data from visitors to his affiliate site Arabic-Casinos. He believes that poker stands out because the game requires both skill and strategy, and it isn’t necessarily associated with casino games to the same extent as roulette and blackjack. Poker can be played anywhere, making it more accessible to players in the region. Influencers like Egyptian Omar Sharif and Youseef Bey Wahbi, along with Lebanese Asmahan and Farid al-Atrash, are all well-known poker players who openly share their poker wins on social media. You also see them around the table games at luxury resorts around the world. When there is access to a casino, Zayed says, blackjack is the preferred game, followed by roulette. Blackjack and roulette are more social and status games—you stand around the table, make connections, and socialize as you place your bets.
Slots, on the other hand, are not as popular among Middle Eastern players. Zayed explains that this is because slots are not traditionally part of Arabic culture; you rarely see Middle Eastern players at slot machines in Macau or Vegas. According to Zayed’s findings, this casino game culture applies to both land-based and online gambling. Influencers often shape trends by increasing visibility for certain styles of play, so this could change if more influencers start to showcase themselves playing slot machines. However, Zayde doesn’t believe slots will ever be as popular in the region as they are elsewhere in the world.
The Future of Gaming in the Arab World
As technology advances, new forms of play continue to emerge. Virtual reality offers immersive experiences, allowing users to feel as if they have entered entirely different worlds. Augmented reality applications integrate interactive elements into everyday life, providing engaging ways to enjoy entertainment. Mobile gaming remains dominant, with developers consistently releasing fresh content tailored to regional tastes. Titles that feature cultural themes attract players who value stories and visuals reflecting their own experiences. Streaming platforms make competitive gaming more accessible, helping to grow larger communities of fans eager to watch professionals showcase their skills. Casino experiences are evolving with new technology. Secure online platforms make it easier for people to access these games, while live dealer options add a more realistic touch. Digital innovations allow younger generations to enjoy these experiences in new ways. The future looks bright as gaming continues to expand in the region.
Conclusion
Gaming in the Arab world blends traditional and modern elements. Classic board games, arcade hits, and digital games create a diverse entertainment scene. Celebrities influence gaming tastes and trends, reaching wider audiences. As technology progresses, gaming will keep expanding, offering new ways to engage and enjoy. The future promises exciting opportunities for all types of gamers in the region, whether they prefer strategy games, social competitions, or casino experiences.
If you want more information on gambling in the Middle East, or have questions for Zayed Al-Ansari, you can contact him through https://www.arabic-casinos.org.