Gambling has long been a popular pastime in Spain, with both the Canary Islands and mainland Spain offering various options for locals and tourists alike. However, while both regions fall under Spanish jurisdiction, the legal rules surrounding gambling vary slightly due to the Canary Islands' status as an autonomous community.
In this article, we'll compare the gambling rules in the Canary Islands and mainland Spain, highlighting key differences and features that make each region unique.
Gambling in Spain is regulated under the Spanish Gambling Act of 2011 (Law 13/2011), which sets out the rules for land-based and online wagering. The law applies to various forms of betting, including casino games, sports betting, poker, bingo, and lotteries.
The Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ), the national regulatory body, oversees gambling activities nationwide, ensuring that all operators adhere to strict licensing requirements and consumer protection measures.
Despite this national oversight, Spain's decentralised political structure means that regional governments have the authority to impose their own rules and regulations in some areas. The Canary Islands, as an independent community, are allowed to regulate certain aspects of gambling.
The Canary Islands enjoy a degree of freedom that allows them to adapt national regulations to suit their needs. This affects the region's gambling regulation, especially land-based casinos and betting shops.
This distinction means that while gambling in the Canary Islands is subject to the same broad framework as in mainland Spain, trusted non GamStop casinos on NonGamStopBookmakers.net offer players an alternative, providing gaming options that are not restricted by UK self-exclusion rules. Local authorities have a more significant say in placing gambling facilities and implementing specific regulations.
Both mainland Spain and the Canary Islands have a well-established casino industry, but there are some differences in how they operate. Mainland Spain is home to some of Europe's largest and most luxurious casinos, particularly in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Marbella. These casinos feature various gaming options, including traditional table games like roulette, blackjack, and baccarat, alongside poker rooms, slot machines, and sports betting facilities. Given mainland Spain's large and varied population, these casinos cater to a broad demographic, including locals and international tourists.
The Canary Islands, by contrast, offer a more tourist-oriented gambling experience. Casinos like Casino Santa Cruz in Tenerife and Casino Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, frequently mentioned in breaking news from Gran Canaria, are popular among residents and visitors. These venues offer classic casino games and a more relaxed atmosphere, aiming to provide a fun gambling experience in a resort-style setting.
While both mainland Spain and the Canary Islands follow the overarching guidelines set out by the Spanish Gambling Act, the Canary Islands' regional sovereignty allows certain adaptations in regulating online gambling.
For example, the Canary Islands government enforces stricter rules regarding advertising and promotions for online gambling operators. Under the 2024 Royal Decree 7/2024, gambling advertisements cannot target vulnerable groups, such as minors or individuals living in areas with high concentrations of educational facilities.
These local regulations aim to create a safer online gambling environment, particularly for those who may be more susceptible to developing gambling-related problems. Anyone struggling with gambling habits can find support at GambleAware, which offers resources and advice to encourage responsible play. Self-regulation and awareness remain key factors in preventing gambling-related harm, and players are advised to set personal limits and gamble responsibly.
The main public in the Canary Island casinos are British tourists. However, those planning their vacation can also play at these non-Gamstop casinos and train before experiencing land-based casinos.
Gambling operators, including casino sites not on GamStop, are subject to taxation on their revenue in mainland Spain and the Canary Islands. Land-based casinos face tax rates ranging from 10% to 20% of their gross gaming revenue (GGR), varying by region.
In the Canary Islands, a special tax regime allows for more competitive rates, benefiting both operators and the local economy. Online gambling sites, including offshore platforms, are also taxed at rates between 7% and 25% of their GGR. However, slot sites not on GamStop often operate under different regulatory jurisdictions, allowing them to bypass strict Spanish gambling laws while still offering services to players. This flexibility attracts many gamblers looking for fewer restrictions, higher bonuses, and a broader selection of games.
Both the Canary Islands and mainland Spain offer a variety of sports betting and lottery options. Spain has a long-standing tradition of sports betting, with football being the most popular sport for wagers. Both regions have many licensed betting shops, and online platforms for sports betting are readily accessible.
Regulatory measures are in place to ensure responsible gambling, with systems similar to GamStop data collection helping monitor player activity and promote safer gambling practices. The growing focus on investing in safer gambling has led operators to implement stricter policies to protect players while maintaining a fair gaming environment.
The national lottery, or Lotería Nacional, is another highly popular form of gambling in Spain. The Canary Islands are no exception, with residents and tourists regularly participating in massive lottery draws such as El Gordo de Navidad. The lottery is tightly regulated, ensuring fairness and transparency.
While the sports betting and lottery landscape is similar in both regions, the Canary Islands' tourism-driven economy means that sports betting is marketed more heavily to international visitors. The area also attracts tourists who want to bet on international events like the English Premier League or Formula 1, further diversifying the region's gambling offerings.
While gambling laws in the Canary Islands and mainland Spain are largely similar, the Canary Islands benefit from a degree of autonomy that allows for tailored regulations, especially when it comes to land-based gambling venues and the proximity of gambling establishments to sensitive areas.
Whether you're visiting the Canary Islands for its stunning beaches or exploring the gambling scene in mainland Spain, understanding the local regulations and responsible gambling practices ensures that you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience. Gambling rules in both regions prioritise player protection, fairness, and transparency, making Spain an appealing destination for gamblers.
Gamble Responsibly: Gambling should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money. Always gamble within your financial means and set limits to stay in control. You must be 18 or older to participate in gambling activities. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, seek help from organisations like FEJAR (Federación Española de Jugadores de Azar Rehabilitados) at www.fejar.org. Stay safe and gamble responsibly.
