No, Saudi Arabia’s 2026 gaming compliance framework prohibits slapjacks under the Entertainment Activities Regulation (EAR), classifying them as unlicensed gambling-adjacent games. The Saudi Gaming Authority (SGA) and Ministry of Culture (MoC) explicitly ban slapjacks in physical and digital formats due to their reliance on chance-based outcomes, aligning with the Anti-Gambling Law (Royal Decree M/113, 2020). Violations risk fines up to SAR 5 million or license revocation.
Key Regulations for Slapjacks in Saudi Arabia
- Licensing Requirement: Slapjacks require SGA approval under the Entertainment Activities Licensing Manual (2025), which mandates proof of skill-based mechanics—unmet by slapjacks’ random card-flipping.
- Prohibited Mechanics: Games with betting elements (even informal) violate EAR Article 7, which criminalizes wagering on outcomes. Slapjacks’ “slap” mechanic triggers penalties if linked to monetary stakes.
- Enforcement Scope: The Saudi Cybersecurity Authority (CSA) monitors digital slapjack apps, while the Municipal Police conducts raids on unlicensed venues. Recent 2026 amendments empower authorities to block VPN-accessed slapjack platforms.