It’s often said that “life is more fun with skin in the game,” a tagline once used in a DraftKings commercial. A company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is attempting to navigate restrictions on wagering by offering an innovative approach.
Under Islam, betting is prohibited, but Hajem Sports provides a Halal-compliant way for users to engage with football (soccer) matches. Founder Zaid Abu Soud launched the mobile application in January, allowing users to place predictions without using real money. Instead, customers receive daily credits for wagers, and winning bets are rewarded with points that can be redeemed for avatar skins within the app.
Free-to-Play Model and Social Engagement
The free-to-play prediction model has been used in the United States, particularly in states that prohibit sports betting. Gaming companies and teams often implement similar systems to introduce new audiences to the concept of wagering without real money prizes. Hajem Sports follows this approach while also emphasizing the social aspect of competition.
“Earn bragging rights as you rack up accurate predictions. Compete in friendly challenges with your team or other fans, and climb the leaderboards to prove you’re the best sports predictor out there,” states the app’s description on Google Play.
Abu Soud has highlighted that the app provides users with the excitement of winning sports bets without the downside of financial loss.
Changing Attitudes Toward Betting in the UAE
Traditionally, legal and regulated gaming options have been unavailable in the Arab world due to religious restrictions. However, the UAE is at the forefront of change.
The country is the first in the Middle East to approve a casino hotel, with Wynn Al Marjan Island expected to open in early 2027. This property will include two casinos, and in the long term, UAE regulators may approve additional integrated resorts. Despite this development, the UAE is expected to take a cautious approach, limiting expansion to a single venue for the foreseeable future.
Additionally, the UAE introduced a national lottery last November, following a conventional format where players purchase tickets for a chance to win cash prizes.
A New Approach to Wagering
Abu Soud describes Hajem Sports as an avenue for “gambling without the sin.” He emphasizes that the app іs not intended tо defy religious principles but rather tо offer Arab and Muslim users a way tо engage with a popular activity іn a manner that aligns with their faith.
Hajem Sports also reflects a broader trend seen іn Western betting markets, where most users treat wagering as a form оf entertainment rather than a source оf income. Looking ahead, the app plans tо expand its offerings tо include basketball, combat sports, and eSports.