Saudi Arabia Sports Betting Market Size to Hit $2,030.3 Million by 2033: Key Trends & Forecast

Saudi Arabia Sports Betting Market Overview

Market Size in 2024: USD 956.7 Million

Market Size in 2033: USD 2,030.3 Million

Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 8.1%

According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, "Saudi Arabia Sports Betting Market Report by Platform (Offline, Online), Betting Type (Fixed Odds Wagering, Exchange Betting, Live/In Play Betting, Pari-Mutuel, eSports Betting, and Others), Sports Type (Football, Basketball, Baseball, Horse Racing, Cricket, Hockey, and Others), and Region 2025-2033", Saudi Arabia sports betting market size reached USD 956.7 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 2,030.3 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% during 2025-2033.

Growth Factors in the Saudi Arabia Sports Betting Market

• Young, Digitally Connected Population

Driving the rise of sports betting in Saudi Arabia is a young, digitally immersed audience. More than 55% of sports gamblers fall within the 25–34 age group, tapping into a large, mobile-first generation that is constantly online and seeking new forms of entertainment. About 83% of those participating in sports betting activities do so primarily through digital channels—using websites or dedicated apps for quick, easy access to odds and betting options. Nearly 38% of the population has engaged in sports betting activities within the past year, suggesting a strong appetite for interactive digital experiences. This demographic’s comfort with mobile payments, familiarity with online communities, and desire for instant engagement play a critical role in powering daily activity across betting platforms, both local and offshore.

• Increased Sporting Events and Major Investments

The Saudi government’s massive investments in domestic and international sports have significantly boosted both casual and organized sports betting. The launch of high-profile events such as the Saudi Pro League, major horse races like the Ta’if Arabian Derby, and a slate of international tournaments has widened the country’s sporting calendar. These events not only attract global viewership but also fuel fan interest in placing bets on outcomes, player performance, and live, in-play scenarios. Prize money at venues like King Khalid Racecourse is up by 24%, with an average of over $27,000 per race. Saudi Arabia’s strategic sports investment—backed by the Public Investment Fund—has positioned the country as a regional sports hub, increasing opportunities for both traditional and digital betting as fans seek to connect with teams, athletes, and tournaments.

• Moves Toward Regulatory Reform and Market Modernization

While sports betting remains officially prohibited under Saudi law, ongoing government discussions about regulations and possible reforms have created a more dynamic environment. Leadership from bodies like the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority is publicly emphasizing modernization and the development of a fair regulatory framework to attract investment, improve transparency, and encourage responsible play. Talk of potentially legalizing online betting and updating licensing procedures is making the market more attractive to international operators and tech innovators. As platforms position themselves for future compliance, consumers are already gravitating toward secure, offshore, or underground digital options, with the anticipation that regulations may eventually enable safer, more transparent betting environments.

Key Trends in the Saudi Arabia Sports Betting Market

• Digital-First, Mobile-Driven Betting

Betting activity in Saudi Arabia is increasingly moving online, with mobile apps and digital platforms acting as the primary touchpoint. Roughly 83% of active bettors use internet-based channels, favoring apps and websites designed for speed, security, and live updates. Real-time odds, push notifications, and in-play wagers let users respond instantly to changing game dynamics or player form. The convenience of mobile betting allows users to place and track bets anywhere, whether at home, at a stadium, or on the go. Top platforms like Betfinal have become household names, with responsive interfaces tailored to younger users. This digital shift reflects broader regional trends, but in Saudi Arabia, it uniquely supports discreet participation given ongoing restrictions and evolving legal clarity.

• Rise of Live and In-Play Betting

Live betting, or wagering on events as they unfold, is gaining significant traction in Saudi Arabia. This format lets gamblers place bets during games on shifting outcomes, such as the next goal or changing odds as the match progresses. Horse racing, football, and even virtual events are now commonly integrated with real-time betting features. For example, at King Khalid Racecourse, racing calendars packed with marquee events have seen a surge in live, in-race betting activity, amplified by digital screens, streaming options, and interactive data feeds. This dynamic approach not only amplifies excitement and fan engagement, but also increases frequency and volume of bets placed, keeping users engaged far beyond traditional, pre-game wagers.

• Cryptocurrency and Anonymity Solutions

With legal barriers and government monitoring still prominent, many bettors are adopting cryptocurrencies and privacy tools to safeguard transactions. Cryptocurrency wallets enable secure, largely anonymous deposits and withdrawals—allowing users to place bets on offshore platforms without drawing local financial scrutiny. while direct taxation on gambling winnings is not enforced, value-added tax applies when winnings are spent within the Kingdom, prompting users to become increasingly savvy about crypto management. This trend isn’t just about evasion: it’s also a response to global innovations in digital payments, with Saudi bettors looking for fast, low-fee transfers and a heightened sense of privacy as part of their overall experience.

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Saudi Arabia Sports Betting Industry Segmentation:

The report has segmented the market into the following categories:

Platform Insights:

• Offline
• Online

Betting Type Insights:

• Fixed Odds Wagering
• Exchange Betting
• Live/In Play Betting
• Pari-Mutuel
• eSports Betting
• Others

Sports Type Insights:

• Football
• Basketball
• Baseball
• Horse Racing
• Cricket
• Hockey
• Others

Regional Analysis:

• Northern and Central Region
• Western Region
• Eastern Region
• Southern Region

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the sports betting landscape in Saudi Arabia is likely to evolve in step with broader cultural and digital shifts. Expect continued growth in digital engagement as fans demand ever more immersive, interactive ways to engage with favorite sports and teams. While today’s market is fueled largely by offshore solutions and discreet online platforms, government-led discussions around regulatory reform and market modernization could ultimately pave the way for a safer, more transparent, and potentially legalized ecosystem. With ongoing investments in sports and technology, and a government eager to expand the sector’s economic footprint, Saudi Arabia is poised to shape a uniquely vibrant, tech-forward betting market—one that adapts to the needs and ambitions of its young, digitally native population.

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Research Methodology:

The report employs a comprehensive research methodology, combining primary and secondary data sources to validate findings. It includes market assessments, surveys, expert opinions, and data triangulation techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability.

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