Gambling is banned in Jordan. Since the early 1990s, all casinos have either closed or been converted into casinos masquerading as gambling facilities. But this law has not stopped the continued growth of tourist traffic to the country. In fact, it seems that there is a strong push by various factions in the country for the re-introduction of gambling. A recent survey indicates that there are large numbers of hotel and casino entrepreneurs in Jordan planning to start a new business.
There are various reasons why a number of casinos are re-starting their activities in Jordan. The most important reason is the relaxation of conservative views regarding gaming. As a country with an advanced system of laws and strict monitoring, Jordan has seen a significant reduction in the instances of gambling and gaming crimes. The presence of the National Lottery Commission and the Gaming Control Commission has helped the authorities in their attempt to strengthen the rule of law. Since Jordan is not a dependent nation, there are chances that the introduction of casinos will increase the number of visitors to the country’s main cities.
The Gaming and Sports Authority have recently approved a draft law on casino gambling, which proposes some minor amendments to the previous laws. The law indicates a new minimum age for playing in all licensed casinos. Previously the minimum age was 18 years old. The law stipulates that anyone above this age is restricted to playing at licensed sporting events only. There have been reports of some instances where players from countries like the US, Russia and India were found to be frequent customers at live gaming venues. This may prompt authorities to introduce a nationwide minimum age for playing.
Gambling is banned in the cities of Jordon and Nabloush, but not yet in the rest of Jordan. The lack of official regulation in the area has led to a situation where almost anyone can set up a gambling venue. Gambling games may also be conducted in tents and makeshift camps outside the cities. A number of camps have been established on the border with Israel, where many Jordanians, illegal immigrants from Israel and Bedouins have made permanent homes.
The influx of guest workers from the nearby countries has led to a marked increase in the number of Casinos in the country. There are approximately 15 Gambling houses in Amman alone where even the conservative residents are known to gamble occasionally. The most common form of entertainment found at these establishments are the Poker, Blackjack, Slot Machines and Bingo Machines. Visitors are not required to purchase a license to gamble in these establishments, which allows residents to have an unlimited access to slot machines and other gaming devices.
Some of the cities like Amman have actually imposed a complete ban on all forms of gambling and have placed tight restrictions over them. However, the situation in the capital of Jordan, Amman, is somewhat different as the government allows certain private gambling establishments to remain open. These include the three casinos mentioned above and other horse racing and casino gambling venues. The government in Amman has actually allowed three commercial casinos to replace the three previously authorized ones in the city. The main reason behind this move being that the new casinos will help in increasing the revenues of the cities by providing more slots and gaming devices for customers to enjoy.
