Top 10 Best betting sites in iraq

Sports betting is a popular pastime worldwide, and citizens of Iraq are no exception, with a large preference for football and other sports. Despite this enthusiasm, accessing online sports betting platforms can present challenges. This guide draws on expert analysis to explain the online betting landscape in Iraq and highlight some of the best international betting sites available to players there.

Is Sports Betting Legal in Iraq? Understanding the Law

According to the Iraqi Penal Code of 1969, all types of gambling are prohibited in Iraq. This Western Asian nation's legal system is heavily influenced by Islamic (Shari'ah) law, similar to many Muslim-majority countries. Sports betting is not allowed, and those who engage in it are subject to the law. Even online sports wagering is forbidden.

However, the situation is often described as a "grey zone". Due to long-standing instability, little attention has been paid to strictly enforcing the ban. There is no specific legal framework explicitly mentioning and prohibiting online betting. While the government doesn't specifically target individuals placing online sports wagers, some betting sites are restricted. Despite the legal prohibition, many international platforms operate and accept local bettors, creating a situation where you can participate without significant concerns.

Notably, expats, foreign nationals, and undocumented immigrants can play online without restriction.

Why Choose International Betting Sites in Iraq?

Since gambling and betting are illegal, there are no legal local Iraqi betting sites. This explains why Iraqis turn to international bookmakers to place their bets. These licensed and regulated international sites allow players from Iraq to freely bet on sports. While not as numerous as in countries where online betting is legalized, locals still have many bookmakers to choose from.

How to Choose the Best Online Betting Sites in Iraq

Selecting the right betting site can be challenging given the available options. Experts recommend looking at several key factors when evaluating international bookmakers serving Iraq:

• Licensing and Reputation: Since there are no legal Iraqi licenses, focus on bookmakers licensed in other reputable jurisdictions like the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gambling Authority, Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, Alderney Gambling Control Commission, or Curaçao eGaming Commission. A valid license indicates the site is likely genuine and will treat you fairly. Check their reputation and whether they resolve player complaints.
• Security: Ensure the website uses SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption to protect your data. Look for sites with additional security measures like anti-fraud protection or two-factor authentication.
• Odds and Betting Markets: The best sites offer competitive odds and a wide selection of betting markets covering various sports and events, including local leagues. Price shopping across multiple sites is recommended to get the best odds for any specific bet.
• Mobile Compatibility: With increasing mobile internet usage in Iraq, a mobile-friendly website or a dedicated mobile app is crucial for betting on the go. Mobile apps are often more convenient and stable.
• Live Betting and Streaming: The availability of live betting markets is important, as is the option to watch live streams of events to inform in-play wagers.
• Customer Support: High-level customer support, ideally available 24/7 via live chat, is vital for a good experience.
• Bonuses and Promotions: While not the most critical factor, good sites offer welcome bonuses and promotions for existing users.
• Payment Methods: Check for convenient and secure payment options accepted by the site.

Recommended Online Betting Sites for Iraqi Players

Based on the sources, several international bookmakers are mentioned as accessible or popular among Iraqi players. Some are highly recommended, while others are listed with ratings and features.

• Betfinal: Mentioned as a well-known, popular, and trustworthy site globally and in Iraq. It is noted for accepting local payment methods like Zicharge, Zaincash, Asiahawala, and PayPal, offering 24/7 support in Arabic, Turkish, and Kurdish, and providing a wide range of sports (over 120) and events (over 80,000 monthly). It is also described as the oldest and best betting site in Iraq by one source and rated highly. Features include live casino, cryptocurrencies, Bet Builder, and fast cash out.
• 20Bet: Listed as one of the most popular offshore bookies for Iraqi punters and among the most used online bookmakers. It features a "Forecast" promo where users can predict outcomes to share a prize pool without betting. It offers great odds, odds boosts, and a selection of 30+ sports including Esports. 20Bet is rated highly.
• Megapari: Listed among the most popular sportsbooks and rated highly. It is noted for its maximum withdrawal limit and Curacao license.
• 1xBet: Listed among the most used online bookmakers. However, one source indicates that sites operated by major operators in Malta and the UK, such as 1xBet, do not accept players from Iraq. Another source rates it highly and notes its large number of active users and features like Cash out, Betting Exchange, and Live stream. Note: There is conflicting information regarding 1xBet accepting Iraqi players.
• Betway: Listed as a top-rated site in one source. However, another source states that sites operated by major operators in Malta and the UK, such as Betway, do not accept players from Iraq. Note: There is conflicting information regarding Betway accepting Iraqi players.
• Thunderpick: Highlighted as a crypto betting site accepting over a dozen crypto coins with thousands of daily events, including less popular sports. It offers a large welcome bonus and various promotions and tournaments. It has a web app for mobile betting.
• Betwinner: Rated highly and noted for features like unique bet types, virtual sports, easy transactions. Offers apps for Android and iOS.
• Loot.bet: Recommended for its extended selection of Esports (over 20 titles) and generous welcome bonuses and promotions.
• PIWI247: A crypto betting site that also functions as a betting exchange, potentially offering slightly higher odds compared to conventional betting. It accepts various cryptocurrencies and is considered safe, backed by platforms like Betfair and Pinnacle. It offers a no-deposit free bet for newcomers.
• Solisbet: Offers separate welcome bonuses for regular sports and Esports. Noted for a wide variety of markets, especially for football (over 150), and also covers basketball, tennis, and American football, including player prop bets.
• Betroller: A licensed online bookie with a Curacao registration, offering a wide range of cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Litecoin, Tether, Ethereum, and 10 others). It has an Android app and live betting markets with live streaming options.
• Rebellion Casino: Noted for a modern layout and good user experience. Offers fair odds, instant support, and a variety of payment methods, plus more than 40 sports including less popular ones. It holds a Curacao license.
• Weiss.bet: Offers features like full cash out, special boosted odds, and live streaming.
• Kineko: Recommended as a decent crypto betting site for untraceable payments. Offers a deposit boost and a VIP program suitable for sports bettors. Has impressive mobile betting features for Android and iOS, including a live betting section covering popular competitions.
• 22bet: Rated highly with features like 24/7 customer support, a wide selection of payment methods, mobile app, and live casino.
• Other sites mentioned include: Coinbet24, BookMaker, JustBet, MELbet, 1win, Fairspin, Casino-X, Highbet, Ybets, Betplay.io, Sportbet.one, Wild.io, Vave, DGbet, Mbet, BC.Game, Stake Casino, Betobet, Shangri La Casino, 10bet Casino, Mr Play, Nomini Casino, CloudBet Casino, Betandyou, Sportsbet.io, 1xbit, Marathonbet, Pinnacle.

Having accounts with multiple sportsbooks is the recommended way to always access the best available odds, as prices vary between bookmakers. This strategy also allows you to take advantage of more bonuses and promotions.

Popular Sports for Betting Among Iraqis

Iraq has a population of sports fans. While betting on international competitions is prevalent, local sports also attract wagers.

Some of the most popular sports to bet on in Iraq include:

• Football (Soccer): By far the most popular sport, with significant interest in both international tournaments (like UCL, Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1) and the local Iraqi Premier League. The Iraqi national team's participation in international events also draws attention.
• Basketball: Extremely popular, influenced by the national team's success and the local Iraq Basketball League. International events like the NBA, PBL, and BBL are also popular betting markets.
• Horse Racing: Historically popular and a big part of the culture. Markets are available for races in the UK, Ireland, US, Asia, and even some Iranian events.
• Tennis: Popular among locals and punters. Betting markets are widely available for ATP and WTA tours, Grand Slams (Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, US Open), and events like the Davis Cup.
• Esports: Gaining significant popularity, especially aided by recent global events. Most sportsbooks offer markets on major titles like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, League of Legends, and Dota 2, with some specializing in a wider range of Esports. Loot.bet and Kineko are noted for strong Esports offerings, as is Betfinal which covers all Esports events.
• Kickboxing: A sport with strong influence, with Iraqi athletes competing in events like the Arab Kickboxing Championship.
• Wrestling: Another combat sport with fans in Iraq, regulated by the Iraqi Wrestling Federation.

Many good betting sites accessible to Iraq cover local sports leagues and smaller competitions, satisfying local punters' needs with excellent market coverage.

Payment Methods for Online Betting in Iraq

Due to the illegal status of gambling, using easily traceable payment methods like credit/debit cards and bank transfers is not recommended. Iraqi bettors prefer alternative methods offering more anonymity and security.

Popular and recommended payment methods for online betting in Iraq include:

• E-wallets: These are a popular choice for deposits and withdrawals. Some of the most popular E-wallets operating in Iraq are Zain Cash, NassPay, AsiaHawala (also called AsiaPay), Perfect Money, EcoPayz, and ZiCharge. They offer security, ease of use, and often faster withdrawals compared to bank cards.
• Cryptocurrencies: Cryptos like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether, Dogecoin, and others are increasingly popular because they are very difficult to trace and tend to be very fast. Several sites like Thunderpick, PIWI247, Betroller, and Kineko specialize in cryptocurrencies.
• Prepaid Cards: NassPay issues Visa prepaid cards, making it a local and global solution. ZiCharge also offers integration with prepaid cards. Prepaid cards can offer added convenience and control over spending.

While some bookmakers might accept the Iraqi dinar, most bettors prefer to use US dollars, euros, or crypto for deposits as more bookies accept them.

Withdrawal speed depends on the method and sportsbook, but E-wallets are generally the fastest, often processing withdrawals within minutes, whereas bank cards can take up to 5 working days.

Bonuses and Promotions for Iraqi Bettors

Despite the limited number of locally licensed sites, Iraqi bettors can access various betting bonuses and promotions from international bookmakers. The quality and type of offers vary.

Common types of bonuses include:

• Welcome Bonuses: Offered to new players upon registration. They often require a first deposit (Deposit Welcome Bonus) but can sometimes be offered just for signing up (No-deposit Welcome Bonus). Deposit bonuses are typically a percentage match of your initial deposit.
• Reload Bonuses: Reward existing players for making subsequent deposits.
• Free Bets: A bonus amount given to players to place a bet without using their own money. They may come with wagering requirements or specific conditions on their use.
• Risk-Free Bets: If you lose a bet placed with your own money, the sportsbook refunds your wager. This allows for betting on higher odds with less personal risk.
• Cashback: Refunds a percentage of your losses (or sometimes all wagers) over a specific period.
• Other Promotions: Sites may offer enhanced odds, accumulator boosts, insurance, or VIP programs.

Examples of bonuses mentioned in the sources include a 500% welcome bonus + 400 Free Spins from Ybets and others, 100% up to $600 in Crypto from Thunderpick, and 100% up to ₿1 from Vave.

Mobile Betting in Iraq

Internet penetration and mobile usage are increasing in Iraq, making mobile betting very popular. Most sportsbooks offer mobile-friendly websites. Additionally, many offer dedicated mobile betting apps for Android, iOS, and sometimes Windows, which provide a more convenient and stable experience. Some bookmakers even offer special promotions for app users.

Live Betting and Streaming

Live betting, or in-play betting, is extremely popular in the betting community. It allows players to place bets on matches as they are happening. While all Iraqi-accessible sites have live markets, the quality and variety of bet types can differ.

Having access to live streaming is highly beneficial for in-play betting, as it allows bettors to follow the action directly. For the best live betting experience, choose sites with good live markets and streaming options.

Safe and Responsible Gambling in Iraq

While online betting is accessible, practicing safe and responsible gambling is crucial, especially given the legal status.

Key practices for betting safely and responsibly include:

• Use Licensed and Secure Sites: Stick to international bookmakers with reputable licenses and strong security measures like SSL encryption.
• Utilize a VPN: A VPN can hide your real IP address and encrypt your connection, providing anonymity and potentially allowing access to restricted sites.
• Employ Secure Payment Methods: Avoid easily traceable methods like bank cards and transfers. Opt for e-wallets or cryptocurrencies for anonymity.
• Gamble Responsibly: Set limits on time and money spent betting. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Avoid chasing losses or betting when in a bad mood or intoxicated. Understand the sports you bet on.
• Seek Help if Needed: If you struggle with gambling problems, international organizations like GambleAware, GamCare, Gamblers Anonymous, and Gambling Therapy can offer support.

The Future of Online Gambling in Iraq

While online betting is technically accessible, its illegal status is unlikely to change soon, as the country has other pressing issues to address. However, given the significant role sports betting plays in Iraqi culture, the rising internet usage (especially mobile), and the lenient approach to online activity, online sports betting is expected to remain popular. The legal situation is likely to stay in the grey zone for a while longer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Betting in Iraq

• Is online betting legal in Iraq? No, all forms of gambling, including online betting, are illegal under the Penal Code of 1969. However, the government is generally lenient towards individuals betting online, and due to a lack of specific laws targeting it, it exists in a legal grey zone, allowing access via international sites without many risks.
• What are the best betting sites in Iraq? There are no local Iraqi betting sites. The best options are considered to be reputable international bookmakers that accept Iraqi players. Some popular examples mentioned include 20Bet, 1xBet, bet365 (though one source says Bet365 doesn't accept players), Betfinal, and Megapari. Other highly-rated sites accessible to Iraqis are also available.
• What currency is accepted by Iraq betting sites? While some sites might accept Iraqi dinar, most bettors prefer using US dollars, euros, or cryptocurrencies as these are more widely accepted by international bookmakers.
• What are the most popular payment methods for online betting in Iraq? Due to privacy concerns regarding the illegal status of betting, bettors avoid traceable methods like bank cards. Popular alternatives include E-wallets such as Zain Cash, NassPay, AsiaHawala, Perfect Money, EcoPayz, and ZiCharge, and cryptocurrencies.
• Do you pay income tax on your winnings while betting online in Iraq? No, the sources state that since online betting is not regulated, there is no law to tax winnings from it. Therefore, gains from gambling are exempt from taxes.
• How fast do withdrawals from these gambling companies process for punters in Iraq? Withdrawal speed depends on the payment method and the sportsbook. E-wallets are generally the fastest, often processing withdrawals within minutes, while bank cards can take up to 5 working days.