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The World’s Most Gambling-Engaged Countries Revealed
A new study by Casino Deps has identified the countries with the highest levels of interest in gambling, measured by monthly search volumes per 100,000 people. The findings offer valuable insight into the regions where gambling thrives—whether due to favorable regulations, cultural acceptance, or growing online casino popularity.
The Netherlands Tops the List
Leading the global ranking, The Netherlands reports an impressive 864.89 monthly searches per 100,000 people, making it the most gambling-curious nation. The country’s liberal gambling regulations and booming online casino industry contribute to its overwhelming interest.
“Online casino” is the most popular search term, generating 75,000 searches per month.
Other commonly searched terms include “Casino games” and “Online gambling”, both averaging 21,000 searches.
Malta and Sweden Rank Among the Top Three
Malta, a recognized hub for the online gaming industry, ranks second with 384.65 monthly searches per 100,000 people. Despite its small population, the country’s pro-business gambling laws and high concentration of licensed operators fuel significant search activity.
Interest is evenly split between Poker, Roulette, and Blackjack, each attracting 250-300 monthly searches.
Taking third place, Sweden records 384.12 monthly searches per 100,000 people. With a well-regulated online gambling market and strong cultural acceptance, Swedish players are among the most engaged in online betting.
“Online casino” dominates the country’s gambling searches, amassing 11,000 monthly queries.
“Free spins” is another popular term, reflecting a demand for casino promotions, with 3,700 searches per month.
Poland, Denmark, and Iceland Show Strong Engagement
In Poland, ranked fourth with 376.49 searches per 100,000 people, online gambling is on the rise due to relaxed regulations and a growing interest in casino platforms.
Blackjack leads the way with 40,000 searches per month, surpassing Poker (16,000 searches) and Roulette (15,000 searches).
Denmark follows in fifth place, reporting 366.17 monthly searches per 100,000 people. A well-regulated and accessible gambling market ensures continued player interest.
Poker is the most searched term, with 4,900 monthly queries, surpassing “Online casino,” which gathers 3,500 searches per month.
Ranking sixth, Iceland records 361.24 searches per 100,000 people. With limited access to land-based casinos, players turn to online gaming platforms, making Blackjack the most popular search term, with 350 monthly queries.
Other Countries with High Gambling Interest
Singapore (#7) – 345.13 searches per 100,000 people
Unlike most regions, “Baccarat” is the most searched term, with 4,600 monthly searches, reflecting the influence of luxury casino resorts like Marina Bay Sands.
Norway (#8) – 336.46 searches per 100,000 people
Despite Norway’s state-controlled gambling monopoly, citizens search for alternatives. Poker tops the list, with 7,500 searches per month.
New Zealand (#9) – 310.66 searches per 100,000 people
A strong betting culture and widespread acceptance of gambling drive interest, with Blackjack (3,100 searches) and Roulette (1,800 searches) ranking above Poker (1,600 searches).
Lithuania (#10) – 300.62 searches per 100,000 people
Recent online gambling regulations, including dedicated licensing for online platforms, have spiked interest. Poker (2,000 searches) and Free spins (1,300 searches) dominate searches.
What Drives Gambling Interest Across These Countries?
Amanda Wilson, CMO of Casino Deps, highlighted how regulatory environments, cultural influences, and population size shape gambling engagement:
"Countries like The Netherlands and Malta, where gambling is widely accepted and well-regulated, naturally rank high. Meanwhile, nations with restrictions, such as Norway and Iceland, still see strong interest as players seek alternatives outside state-controlled markets."
The Global Gambling Landscape is Evolving
This study highlights how player demand, industry regulations, and local gaming cultures influence gambling interest worldwide. While some countries thrive due to strong legal frameworks, others see rising engagement as players explore alternative betting options. With technology and regulations constantly evolving, these rankings may shift, reshaping the global gambling landscape in the years to come.
