If you’ve ever wondered “Is gambling legal in Mauritius?”, the answer is yes, gambling is legal and regulated on the island. From lively land-based casinos to online betting sites, Mauritius has a well-structured system for gaming and entertainment. But like anywhere else, there are rules and licensing laws you should know before you roll the dice.
Gambling Laws in Mauritius
Gambling in Mauritius is regulated under the Gambling Regulatory Authority Act, overseen by the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA). This body controls everything from casino operations and sports betting to lotteries and online gaming.
The government treats gambling as both a form of entertainment and a source of tourism and tax revenue, so it’s closely monitored to ensure fairness and player protection.
Land-Based Casinos in Mauritius
Mauritius might be known for its beaches and lagoons, but it also has a vibrant casino scene. You’ll find several brick-and-mortar casinos across the island, mainly in tourist hubs like Port Louis, Grand Baie, and Flic-en-Flac.
Some of the most popular casinos in Mauritius include:
- Casino de Maurice (Port Louis) – the island’s oldest and most iconic casino.
- Le Grand Casino du Domaine Les Pailles – famous for its elegant design and wide range of table games.
- Senator Casino and Ti Vegas Casino – located in Grand Baie, perfect for a lively night out.
You can play everything from roulette, blackjack, and poker to slot machines and electronic games. Most casinos also feature restaurants, bars, and live entertainment — making them a full-night experience rather than just a gaming venue.
Is Online Gambling Legal in Mauritius?
This is one of the most common questions: “Can I gamble online in Mauritius?”
Currently, online gambling is not fully legalized or licensed locally, but players are not criminalized for playing on foreign casino sites. In other words:
- Mauritian residents can access international online casinos that accept Mauritian players.
- There are no local online casinos officially licensed under Mauritian law (as of 2025).
- The GRA continues to explore regulatory options for safe, legal online gaming in the future.
If you decide to play online, it’s best to choose reputable, licensed international casinos that are regulated in trusted jurisdictions (like Malta, the UK, or Curacao). Always check that the site supports secure payment methods like Visa, Mastercard, or e-wallets such as Skrill and Neteller, online gambling is always a risk so better to play on a reputed site.
Sports Betting in Mauritius
Sports betting is another legal and popular form of gambling in Mauritius. The GRA licenses several betting shops and agencies, offering odds on football (soccer), horse racing, and international sporting events.
Mauritius has a long history with horse racing, centered around the Champ de Mars Racecourse in Port Louis, one of the oldest racetracks in the world. You can usually get to watch a horserace every Saturday or Sunday. Betting on horse races is a big thing in Mauritius and there are regulated sports operators who facilitate this.
Lotteries and Scratch Cards
Weekly Lotto is probably the biggest form of gambling oped by Mauritians. There are government approved lotteries and scratch card games including the Mauritius National Lottery, all are extremely popular. These games are fully legal and in some cases the portion of the winnings contribute to the public welfare projects.
Gambling for Tourists in Mauritius: What to Expect
Visiting Mauritius and thinking about hitting the casino floor? You’re in luck.
Tourists are welcome in all licensed casinos, and most accept both Mauritian Rupees (MUR) and major foreign currencies. Dress codes are generally smart-casual, and you’ll need a valid ID or passport to enter.
Casinos often stay open late, especially in resort areas, offering a safe, high-quality gaming environment. Check in the resort that you are staying, they usually have a casino where you can play easily without having the need to travel elsewhere.