One licence rather than a market
Most European countries license several casino operators and let them compete. Cyprus chose the opposite: legislation granted an exclusive licence to Melco, which built City of Dreams Mediterranean in Limassol and operates satellite casinos in other cities under the same concession.
The practical effect for a visitor is that there is no shopping around. Table minimums, rules and pay tables are set by one operator across the island, so the variation you would look for between rooms in Malta or Greece does not exist here.
Two ages, and the online gap
Cyprus has two minimum ages and they are easy to trip over. Betting, land based and online, is 18. Entering the integrated resort in Limassol or one of its satellite casinos is 21. An 18 year old can legally place a sports bet and be refused at the casino door on the same afternoon.
Online is split the same way. Sports betting is licensed by the National Betting Authority. Online casino games, slots and poker are not covered by a Cyprus licence at all, which leaves them outside the regulated market rather than inside it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many casinos are there in Cyprus?
- One integrated resort, City of Dreams Mediterranean in Limassol, plus satellite casinos in other cities operated under the same exclusive licence.
- What is the legal gambling age in Cyprus?
- 18 for betting. 21 to enter the casino resort or its satellites.
- Are winnings taxed in Cyprus?
- Not in the player's hands. Cyprus taxes the operator rather than the player, in the pattern used by Malta and the UK.
Legal age, regulator and the tax treatment of player winnings on this page were checked against the regulator's own material or a reputable legal summary in August 2026. Gambling law moves; confirm anything consequential with the regulator before relying on it. Where sources disagreed, this site leaves the figure out rather than guessing.