Dominican Republic Advances New Gambling Regulation

The Chamber of Deputies approved a bill reorganising the authorisation, supervision and oversight of land-based and online gambling. The initiative would suspend the issuance of new licences for ten years, except for casinos located in hotels and tourist areas.

Dominican Republic.- July 28, 2026 www.zonadeazar.com The Chamber of Deputies approved, in two consecutive readings, a bill aimed at establishing a new regulatory framework for gambling activities across the country.

The initiative, introduced by senators Pedro Catrain and Félix Bautista, had already been approved by the Senate. However, amendments made by the deputies mean that the text must now return to the upper chamber for further consideration.

The bill regulates the authorisation, inspection and supervision of individuals and legal entities that develop, operate or market betting and gambling activities. Its scope covers both land-based establishments and operations conducted through electronic, digital, telematic, virtual and interactive channels.

Its main objectives include creating a unified licensing framework, strengthening tax collection, protecting users and preventing fraud and money laundering.

The proposal also establishes duties, rights and responsibilities for operators, along with measures designed to protect children and adolescents and preserve public order.

One of its most significant provisions establishes that, once the official register of licensees is published, no new licences would be granted for certain gambling establishments for a period of ten years.

The restriction would not apply to casinos located in hotels and tourist areas, which represent an important component of the Dominican Republic’s hospitality and entertainment offering.

Gambling establishments would also be prohibited from operating within 500 metres of schools, universities, hospitals, clinics, churches, police and military facilities, childcare centres, disability care institutions and the headquarters of government authorities.

Sports betting shops would also be required to maintain a minimum distance of 500 metres from one another.

Final approval of the initiative would represent a significant step towards a more centralised, modernised and closely supervised gambling market in the Dominican Republic.

Edited by: @_fonta