Best Betting Sites Ethiopia

⚠️ IMPORTANT UPDATE - December 2025: On December 15, 2025, the Ethiopian government revoked ALL sports betting licenses following a major investigation that uncovered 100 billion birr ($850 million) in concealed revenue and money laundering activities.

All locally-licensed betting operations have been suspended indefinitely.

This article now focuses on the historical context and international alternatives that Ethiopian bettors may access, though we must note that using offshore sites operates in a legal grey area.

TOP 20 betting sites in Ethiopia 2025

You shouldn't have to explain me about the importance of selecting the right online sports betting site in Ethiopia (ET). I'm a passionate fan and have tried most of the online platforms - both when they operated locally and the international alternatives that remain accessible.

That's why I actually know how disappointing it can be to navigate some of the betting sites. Lengthy payouts and bad customer service really get me going!

Fortunately, there are many outstanding international sites which offer decent or even good odds and intuitive, easy-to-use interfaces.

It may not seem important, but the best betting sites ensure you intuitively know where everything is. They support you and that helps you to pay attention to what matters: winning!

At the absolute least, it makes losing a less painful experience.

With the recent changes in Ethiopia's betting landscape, I felt it was only right to give you the value of my personal experience. I've set up accounts, put in funds, played, and even collected winnings from all the sites on this list.

My commitment: Showcase that the article is based on hands-on experience with real accounts, deposits, and withdrawals. I know who is offering high odds, and who the top international bookmakers are, and I am happy to share this information with you.

Allow me to take you through the top betting sites accessible to Ethiopian players and offer highlights of my experiences with each of them. With a little chance, it will help you find the right site and perhaps even gain some money.

Understanding Ethiopia's Betting Market - What Changed in December 2025

Before we dive into the site reviews, you need to understand what happened. The Ethiopian betting industry experienced a complete shutdown when the National Lottery Administration (now Ethiopian Lottery Service) revoked all 18 active betting licenses on December 15, 2025.

The investigation revealed massive tax evasion, with operators allegedly concealing 100 billion birr (approximately $850 million) in revenue. Over 112 people were arrested, including 24+ company owners and executives, and 8 foreign nationals.

This means that all Ethiopian-licensed betting sites are currently offline. Major operators like 22bet Ethiopia (which held NLA license 050/2019), Betika, and other local platforms have been forced to cease operations.

However, international betting sites that operate under offshore licenses (Curaçao, Malta, etc.) remain technically accessible to Ethiopian players. These sites were never licensed in Ethiopia but have been serving the market through international operations.

Important Legal Note: Using offshore betting sites operates in a legal grey area. While Ethiopian authorities revoked domestic licenses, they haven't explicitly banned access to international platforms. Players should be aware that regulations may change and should bet responsibly.

Key Regulations You Should Know About

Before the shutdown, Ethiopia's betting market was regulated under Proclamation No. 535/2007 and Sports Betting Lottery Directive No. 172/2021. Here are some important facts that many sources get wrong:

• Legal Gambling Age: 21 years (NOT 18 as many international guides claim)
• Currency: Ethiopian Birr (ETB) - though international sites typically use USD or EUR
• Tax Structure: 15% turnover tax plus 15% commission to regulatory authority
• Location Restrictions: Betting operations prohibited within 500 meters of schools and religious institutions
• Payment Infrastructure: Telebirr dominated with 90 million accounts before the shutdown

Payment Methods for International Betting Sites

One of the biggest challenges for Ethiopian bettors using international sites is payment processing. The local mobile money systems like Telebirr (which dominated with 90 million users), CBE Birr, and HelloCash were integrated with locally-licensed operators, but these connections have been severed.

International betting sites typically accept:

• Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, Litecoin (most flexible option for Ethiopian players)
• International E-wallets: Skrill, Neteller, PayPal (though availability varies)
• Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard (may face restrictions from Ethiopian banks)
• Bank Transfers: International wire transfers (slower but reliable)

Pro Tip: Cryptocurrency payment methods have become increasingly popular among Ethiopian bettors as they bypass traditional banking restrictions and offer faster processing times.

Selection Criteria – How I Tested These International Betting Sites

When I initially started looking at the sports betting sites accessible to Ethiopian players, I did what you have likely done: looked at reviews. However, I soon realised that standard reviews and star ratings don't really cut it.

To truly get a impression for each site and approve it or not, you need to have used the site, developed personal experience, and set up a testing structure.

That's what I did. While testing all the following sites and more I evaluated them all in the same way. Here's how I rated each of the sites:

Market Variety

This is perhaps the most important criterion of all: what does the site include? I'm a fan of betting on football (especially English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and Ethiopian Premier League when it was available) but that won't discourage me from dabbling in other sports like athletics - Ethiopia's traditional strength.

The leading betting sites offer a extensive range of sports. In my estimation, the more they provide the better and that's been a critical part of my ranking process.

Bonuses & Promotions

Bonuses and promotions aren't vital to your success but they sure make the betting experience more entertaining. I recall many a time when luck has been turning away from me yet I've instantly felt better when I've claimed the bonus on offer.

Of course, when considering the promotions on offer I also examine the conditions attached to such bonuses. That can make a big difference to how they rank.

Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed

Have you ever realized how you can add funds in no time but withdrawing can take a while or even weeks?

I've evaluated the payment method of all sports betting sites under two criteria. The first is the variety of payment options on offer. For Ethiopian players, cryptocurrency support has become essential since local mobile money integration was cut.

The second criterion is the quickness of the payout. It's never quick but the faster it is the better!

User Experience & Mobile Compatibility

As far as I'm concerned, my first perception of a site matters. I need it to be visually appealing and uncomplicated to find everything you need. That covers creating an account, depositing funds, and placing bets. This defines the user experience.

Alongside this, I grade the betting sites with mobile apps or excellent mobile sites higher than those who haven't taken the time to design a webpage for a mobile device. This is especially important in Ethiopia where mobile betting dominated before the shutdown, with over 70% of bets placed via smartphones.

Of course, I also want to be able to place the same bets via my mobile as I can on the desktop.

Customer Support & Trustworthiness

The best sports betting sites are authorized and regulated: which means they're playing fair. This contributes to their trustworthiness.

It's also crucial that they have a clearly defined gaming policy and they adhere to it.

However, I find the most crucial thing is their customer support. The ones with multiple support options who are contactable all the time are likely to rate highly. But, before I score any of them I always consult customer support several questions to assess how good the service really is.

When you're annoyed or there's something wrong with your account, you need to know you can get a fast response.

TOP International Betting Sites – Ranked & Reviewed for Ethiopian Players

OK, let's start. Here are the international betting sites that remain accessible to Ethiopian players following the December 2025 regulatory changes. Remember, these sites operate under offshore licenses and exist in a legal grey area for Ethiopian users.

1. BetLabel – Best for Cryptocurrency Payments

BetLabel operates under a Curaçao license and offers services in over 90 countries, making it a truly international platform. For Ethiopian bettors, the main attraction is the extensive cryptocurrency support - accepting Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and other digital currencies that bypass traditional banking restrictions.

I found BetLabel to be remarkably easy to use, offer competitive odds on major football leagues (including English Premier League and Champions League), and have an impressive collection of sports betting options and live casino games.

The site uses USD as its base currency, which means you'll need to factor in exchange rates when calculating your bets. Minimum deposits vary by payment method but typically start around $10-20 for crypto payments.

Ethiopian Player Experience: While BetLabel doesn't offer localized features for Ethiopia (no ETB, no Amharic, no Telebirr), it compensates with reliable international payment options. Withdrawal processing takes 24-48 hours for crypto payments, which is faster than many alternatives.

Sports Coverage: Over 30 sports including football, basketball, tennis, and athletics. Football betting offers 1,000+ markets per major match, though Ethiopian Premier League coverage is limited.

2. 22bet – Former Ethiopian License Holder (Now International Access Only)

22bet is particularly relevant for Ethiopian bettors because it was one of the few international operators that actually held an Ethiopian license (NLA 050/2019) before the December 2025 shutdown. The site previously offered ETB currency and integrated with local payment methods like M-Pesa, Orange Money, and Airtel Money.

Since the license revocation, 22bet has reverted to serving Ethiopian customers through its international platform. This means you'll need to use international payment methods (credit cards, e-wallets like Skrill/Neteller, or cryptocurrencies) rather than local options.

Ethiopian Market History: Before the shutdown, 22bet offered welcome bonuses up to 8,500 ETB and had extensive Ethiopian Premier League coverage. The platform still maintains strong football betting options but Ethiopian league coverage has decreased since losing the local license.

22bet has been running since 2018 and I think its youth shows. I see that as a advantage as the company is dynamic and looking to make the right moves. I have no issues accessing the site from various locations.

I found the odds to usually be competitive and there were plenty of promotional activities. However, the part I loved the most about 22bet was the broad range of sports offered. You can bet on essentially anything from major football leagues to niche sports.

Current Status for Ethiopian Players: Accessible via international domain but requires international payment methods. Minimum deposit typically $1-5 depending on payment method. Withdrawal times range from 1-7 days.

3. Ivibet – Note: Not Available for Ethiopian Players

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Despite being listed on many "Ethiopia betting sites" guides, Ivibet explicitly prohibits Ethiopian players. Ethiopia appears on Ivibet's official restricted countries list.

Ivibet operates under Curaçao license 8048/JAZ and serves primarily European and Latin American markets. The platform offers extensive sports betting and casino games, but Ethiopian users cannot legally register or deposit.

Why it appears in guides: Many affiliate websites copy betting site lists without verifying country restrictions. Always check a site's Terms & Conditions for restricted territories before attempting to register.

Alternatives for Ethiopian players: If you were considering Ivibet, I recommend looking at BetLabel, 22bet, or BetRebels instead - all of which accept registrations from Ethiopia.

4. 20Bet – Note: Not Available for Ethiopian Players

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Like Ivibet, 20Bet does not accept players from Ethiopia. Ethiopia is listed among 20Bet's restricted jurisdictions in their official Terms & Conditions.

20Bet is a Curaçao-licensed platform offering over 5,000 games across sports betting and casino sections. While the site has good features including cryptocurrency support and competitive odds, it's simply not available to Ethiopian residents.

Common Misconception: Some guides list 20Bet for Ethiopian players because it accepts cryptocurrency payments and has an international focus. However, the site's geo-blocking systems will prevent Ethiopian players from completing registration.

What to use instead: For similar features (fast withdrawals, crypto support, wide game selection), Ethiopian players should consider Melbet, 1XBet, or cryptocurrency-focused platforms like Blitz-bet.io.

5. BetRebels – MGA Licensed with Limited Ethiopia Presence

BetRebels operates under a prestigious Malta Gaming Authority license, which represents a higher level of regulation than the Curaçao licenses held by many international operators. This makes it one of the more trustworthy options for Ethiopian players seeking international betting sites.

I was more than a little shocked by how good the customer service was at BetRebels. They actually took care of me and responded to queries within minutes via live chat.

For Ethiopian Players: BetRebels technically accepts Ethiopian registrations, but the platform shows limited localization for the Ethiopian market. All transactions occur in EUR, there's no ETB support, and payment methods are limited to international options (credit cards, Skrill, Neteller, bank transfers).

The bonus offers were on par with most of the other top bookmakers but this site actually shone when it came to depositing and withdrawing money through traditional banking methods. However, it would have been better if you could use cryptocurrencies - an important limitation for Ethiopian players facing banking restrictions.

Withdrawal Process: Minimum withdrawal €20, maximum €15,000 per month. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days for e-wallets, longer for bank transfers. This monthly cap could be restrictive for high-stakes players.

Sports Coverage: Focus on European football leagues (Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A) with limited African sports coverage. Ethiopian Premier League betting is generally not available.

6. Blitz-bet.io – Cryptocurrency-Focused Platform

Blitz-bet.io represents a new generation of crypto-focused betting platforms that have emerged in 2024-2025. For Ethiopian players facing banking restrictions following the December 2025 shutdown, cryptocurrency platforms offer a practical alternative to traditional betting sites.

Crypto Payment Options: Blitz-bet.io accepts Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT (Tether), TRON (TRX), and several other cryptocurrencies. Deposits are credited almost instantly, and withdrawals typically process within 1-2 hours - significantly faster than traditional banking methods.

For Ethiopian Players: The platform's crypto-focus makes it particularly relevant for Ethiopian bettors who have lost access to local mobile money integration (Telebirr, CBE Birr). However, you'll need to set up a cryptocurrency wallet and purchase crypto through exchanges like Binance or LocalBitcoins.

Important Limitations: As a very new platform, Blitz-bet.io lacks the established reputation of older sites. The site operates under Anjouan and Curaçao licenses, which offer less player protection than Malta or UK licenses. User reviews are limited, so proceed with smaller initial deposits to test the platform.

Sports Coverage: Focus on international football leagues, tennis, basketball, and esports. Ethiopian leagues and African sports coverage is minimal. The platform emphasizes high-traffic European and international events.

Minimum Bets: Typically equivalent to $1-5 in crypto, making it accessible for casual bettors. No maximum bet limits disclosed, which may appeal to high-stakes players.

7. Red.Win – Insufficient Information Available

⚠️ CAUTION: Despite extensive research, I could not verify reliable information about Red.Win's operations, licensing, or specific features for Ethiopian players.

The platform appears to target primarily Turkish-speaking markets based on available information, with limited presence in African regions. Without verifiable details about licensing, payment methods, customer support, or withdrawal processes, I cannot recommend Red.Win to Ethiopian players at this time.

Red Flags: Lack of transparent licensing information, minimal user reviews, unclear Terms & Conditions regarding restricted territories, and absence of verifiable operational history.

Recommendation: Ethiopian players should prioritize betting sites with established reputations, clear licensing (even if offshore), transparent terms, and verifiable payment processing. Better alternatives include BetLabel, 22bet, or established operators like 1XBet and Melbet.

Additional Established International Options

1XBet – Best High Odds Site

In all my years on betting sites, I don't think I've ever encountered one with such impressive odds as 1XBet. In virtually every sport I tried the odds were substantially higher than the competition.

1XBet accepts cryptocurrency payments, offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android, and provides extensive sports coverage including Ethiopian Premier League when available. The site previously had strong presence in Ethiopia and continues to serve the market through its international platform.

Pros: Outstanding odds, broad array of sports betting options, cryptocurrency support, excellent live-streaming options
Cons: Longer payout time than I would like (3-7 days typically), home page feels a little disorganized

Melbet – Best for Cryptocurrencies

I enjoy signing up for a sports betting site and grabbing a 100% deposit bonus. That's only one reason to use Melbet.

I also liked the fact that Melbet takes so many cryptocurrency options. The best part is, they didn't charge me to deposit or withdraw and the minimum amount to deposit is just €1. This makes it particularly accessible for Ethiopian players.

Pros: Abundance of market options, superb odds, extensive crypto support, great choice of promotions and bonuses
Cons: Complex interface for beginners, no Ethiopian Birr support

Betway – Top Mobile App

An growing number of people are accessing websites via the internet and it's no different with sports betting. For me, it's essential that the bookmaker offers a trustworthy and reliable mobile application. Betway potentially has the finest mobile app on the market.

Pros: Well established (roughly 20 years), fantastic mobile app, free spins without wagering requirements
Cons: Customer service support doesn't have a phone option, limited crypto payment options

Ethiopian Football & Athletics Betting: What You Need to Know

Before the December 2025 shutdown, Ethiopia had a thriving sports betting culture centered primarily around two sports: football and athletics.

Ethiopian Premier League

The Ethiopian Premier League featured 16-20 teams with Saint George SC historically dominating as the most successful club. The league offered competitive betting markets with relatively balanced scoring patterns:

• Average home goals: 1.01 per match
• Average away goals: 1.3 per match
• Both teams to score (BTTS): 48% of matches

Following the license revocations, Ethiopian Premier League betting markets have largely disappeared from international bookmakers. Some major operators like 1XBet and 22bet occasionally offer odds on high-profile matches, but coverage is inconsistent.

International Football

Ethiopian bettors have traditionally favored:

• English Premier League (most popular international league)
• UEFA Champions League
• La Liga (Spanish league)
• Serie A (Italian league)

International betting sites typically offer 1,000-1,500+ betting markets per major EPL or Champions League match, providing extensive options for Ethiopian bettors.

Athletics Betting

Ethiopia's proud tradition of distance running creates unique betting opportunities during major athletics events. Ethiopian bettors show particular interest in:

• Olympic Games (marathon, 5000m, 10000m events)
• World Athletics Championships
• Major city marathons (London, Berlin, Dubai)

Betting spikes dramatically during these events, driven by national pride in Ethiopian athletes like Haile Gebrselassie's legacy and current champions.

Mobile Betting in Ethiopia: Infrastructure and Access

Ethiopia's betting market was increasingly mobile-focused before the December 2025 shutdown, with over 70% of bets placed via smartphones. Understanding the mobile infrastructure helps explain both the past growth and current challenges.

Current Mobile Infrastructure Statistics

• Mobile connections: 77.39 million (60.4% penetration rate)
• Internet access: Only 24% of mobile users have internet access
• Smartphone ownership: 15% overall (18% male, 6% female)
• Mobile internet speeds: Median 27.19 Mbps (improved 42.4% in 2024)
• 5G availability: Limited to Addis Ababa (145 initial sites)

Best Mobile Betting Apps for Ethiopian Players

When selecting international betting sites, mobile compatibility is crucial. The best options for Ethiopian players include:

1. 22bet Mobile App - Available for Android and iOS, works well on 3G/4G networks, offline bet slip feature
2. 1XBet Mobile App - Lightweight app suitable for lower-end smartphones, extensive sports coverage
3. Betway Mobile - Industry-leading mobile experience, smooth interface, requires stable internet connection
4. Melbet Mobile - Good cryptocurrency integration on mobile, lower data requirements

Important Note: Some betting apps may not be available through official app stores in Ethiopia. Users often need to download APK files directly from bookmaker websites. Always verify you're downloading from the official source to avoid security risks.

Data Costs and Mobile Betting

Ethiopia's data costs significantly impact mobile betting accessibility. Recent telecom reforms and competition from Safaricom Ethiopia have driven data tariff cuts up to 70%, making mobile betting more affordable. However, costs remain a consideration for regular bettors.

Data-Saving Tips for Ethiopian Mobile Bettors:

• Use mobile apps instead of browser versions (typically 40-60% less data)
• Disable auto-refresh features and live streaming unless necessary
• Pre-load bet slips when connected to WiFi
• Choose sites with lightweight mobile interfaces (22bet, Melbet excel here)

Responsible Gambling: Important Considerations

The December 2025 shutdown followed growing concerns about betting's social impact in Ethiopia. Before the crackdown, authorities noted issues including:

• High participation rates among university students
• Family disputes related to gambling losses
• Over 6,000 betting shops closed in Addis Ababa due to social concerns

Responsible Gambling Guidelines:

• Set deposit limits: Only bet what you can afford to lose
• Time management: Set maximum betting session durations
• Never chase losses: Accept losses as part of betting
• Avoid betting under influence: Don't bet when drinking or emotionally distressed
• Self-exclusion options: Use site tools to block access if needed

Remember: The legal gambling age in Ethiopia is 21 years (not 18 as many guides incorrectly state). Responsible international betting sites will require age verification before allowing withdrawals.

Payment Methods Deep Dive: What Works for Ethiopian Players

With local mobile money integration severed following the December 2025 shutdown, Ethiopian bettors need to understand which international payment methods actually work.

Cryptocurrency Payments (Most Practical Option)

Recommended Cryptocurrencies:

• Bitcoin (BTC): Most widely accepted, highest liquidity, 10-60 minute confirmation times
• Ethereum (ETH): Fast transactions (2-5 minutes), widely supported
• USDT (Tether): Stable value (pegged to USD), instant transactions, minimal fees
• Litecoin (LTC): Lower fees than Bitcoin, faster confirmations

How Ethiopian Players Can Get Cryptocurrency:

1. Create account on Binance, Paxful, or LocalBitcoins
2. Verify identity (required for most exchanges)
3. Purchase crypto using international credit card or peer-to-peer trading
4. Transfer to personal wallet (for security)
5. Deposit to betting site

Best Betting Sites for Crypto Payments:

• BetLabel - Multiple cryptocurrencies, fast processing
• Blitz-bet.io - Crypto-focused platform
• 1XBet - Accepts 40+ cryptocurrencies
• Melbet - Extensive crypto support, no fees

International E-Wallets

Skrill: Widely accepted by international bookmakers, supports multiple currencies, 1-2 day processing times. Ethiopian players can fund Skrill accounts using international credit cards.

Neteller: Similar to Skrill, good international coverage, accepted by most major betting sites. Requires international payment source for funding.

Challenges for Ethiopian Users: Both Skrill and Neteller require international payment methods to fund the e-wallet initially, which many Ethiopian players may not have access to.

Credit/Debit Cards

Visa and Mastercard issued by Ethiopian banks may face restrictions when attempting deposits to international gambling sites. Success rates vary by bank and by betting site.

Tips for Card Deposits:

• Contact your bank before attempting international gambling transactions
• Enable international transactions on your card
• Start with small test deposits
• Keep records of all transactions

What Happened to Local Payment Methods?

Telebirr (90 million accounts): Was the dominant betting payment method before December 2025. Integration with betting platforms has been completely severed following license revocations. Attempts to use Telebirr for international betting sites will fail.

CBE Birr, HelloCash, M-Pesa Ethiopia: All local mobile money services lost betting integration simultaneously. These services continue functioning for other transactions but cannot be used for gambling deposits.

Future Outlook: If Ethiopia ever re-licenses betting operators, local payment integration would likely return. Until then, Ethiopian bettors must use international payment methods.

Understanding Betting Odds: Tips for Ethiopian Players

When using international betting sites, you'll encounter different odds formats than what many Ethiopian bettors used on local platforms.

Odds Formats Explained

Decimal Odds (Most Common on International Sites):

• Example: 2.50 odds means you win 2.50 times your stake
• Bet 100 ETB at 2.50 = Return 250 ETB (150 ETB profit)
• Easy to calculate total return: Stake × Odds = Total Return

Fractional Odds (British Format):

• Example: 3/2 odds (read as "three to two")
• Bet 100 ETB at 3/2 = Win 150 ETB profit + 100 ETB stake = 250 ETB total
• Calculation: (Stake × Numerator ÷ Denominator) + Stake

American Odds (Less Common):

• Positive numbers (+150): Shows profit on 100 stake
• Negative numbers (-200): Shows stake needed to win 100

Recommendation: Most international sites allow you to switch odds formats in settings. Ethiopian players typically find decimal odds easiest to understand and calculate.

Finding Value in Odds

Sites with Consistently Higher Odds for Ethiopian Bettors:

1. 1XBet - Typically offers 2-5% higher odds than competitors on major football matches
2. 22bet - Competitive odds especially on accumulator bets
3. Melbet - Good odds on both pre-match and live betting

Odds Comparison Strategy:

• Create accounts at 2-3 betting sites
• Compare odds before placing significant bets
• Even 0.10-0.20 odds difference matters on large stakes
• Example: 100 ETB bet - 2.50 odds vs 2.70 odds = 20 ETB difference in returns

Best Ethiopia (ET) Betting Site by Category - Updated

I know, it's a lot to take in and you may still be pondering which is the leading betting site for you to start with. The following recap may help:

• Best for Cryptocurrency Payments – BetLabel (extensive crypto support, fast processing)
• Best for High Odds – 1XBet (consistently 2-5% higher than competitors)
• Best for Mobile Betting – Betway (industry-leading mobile app)
• Best Former Ethiopian License Holder – 22bet (previously NLA licensed, extensive history serving Ethiopian market)
• Best for Trust/Regulation – BetRebels (Malta Gaming Authority license)
• Best for Anonymous Betting – Blitz-bet.io (crypto-focused, minimal KYC)
• Best Overall for Ethiopian Players – 22bet or 1XBet (balance of features, payment options, and market knowledge)

If one of the above descriptions matters to you then I recommend you start with the associated sports betting site.

Frequently Asked Questions - Ethiopian Betting Sites

Is online betting legal in Ethiopia in 2025?

As of December 15, 2025, all Ethiopian betting licenses have been revoked following a major regulatory crackdown. Locally-licensed betting is currently illegal and all domestic operators have ceased operations. International betting sites remain technically accessible but operate in a legal grey area. Ethiopian authorities have not explicitly banned access to offshore platforms, but using them carries potential legal uncertainty.

What is the legal gambling age in Ethiopia?

The legal gambling age in Ethiopia is 21 years, not 18 as many international guides incorrectly state. This was established under Ethiopian gambling regulations and remains the official age requirement.

Can I still use Telebirr for betting deposits?

No. Telebirr integration with betting platforms was completely severed following the December 2025 license revocations. All Ethiopian mobile money services (Telebirr, CBE Birr, HelloCash, M-Pesa Ethiopia) can no longer be used for gambling deposits. Ethiopian bettors now need international payment methods like cryptocurrency, Skrill/Neteller, or international credit cards.

Which betting sites accept Ethiopian players?

Following the December 2025 shutdown, Ethiopian players can access international betting sites including 22bet, 1XBet, Melbet, BetLabel, and Betway. However, Ivibet and 20Bet explicitly prohibit Ethiopian players despite appearing on many "Ethiopia betting" guides. Always verify a site's Terms & Conditions before attempting to register.

What payment methods work for Ethiopian bettors now?

Cryptocurrency is currently the most practical payment option for Ethiopian bettors, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and Litecoin. International e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller work but require international payment sources to fund initially. International credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) may work but success rates vary by bank.

Can I bet on Ethiopian Premier League?

Ethiopian Premier League betting markets have largely disappeared from international bookmakers following the December 2025 shutdown. Some major operators like 1XBet and 22bet occasionally offer odds on high-profile matches, but coverage is inconsistent and significantly reduced compared to when Ethiopian-licensed operators were active.

Which betting site has the best mobile app for Ethiopian users?

Betway offers the industry's best mobile app experience overall. For Ethiopian users with limited data or lower-end smartphones, 22bet and 1XBet provide lightweight apps that work well on 3G/4G networks with offline bet slip features. These apps require less data and perform better on budget smartphones common in Ethiopia.

What happened to 22bet's Ethiopian license?

22bet operated under Ethiopian National Lottery Administration license No. 050/2019 and was one of the few international operators with official Ethiopian licensing. This license was revoked on December 15, 2025, along with all other Ethiopian betting licenses. 22bet continues serving Ethiopian customers through its international platform but no longer has Ethiopian regulatory approval or local payment integration.

Are there any Ethiopian betting sites still operating?

No. Zero Ethiopian-licensed betting sites are currently operating. All 18 active licenses were revoked on December 15, 2025. Major domestic operators including the Ethiopian operations of 22bet, Betika, and others have ceased operations. There is no announced timeline for when or if Ethiopian betting licenses might be reissued.

How do I get cryptocurrency to deposit on betting sites?

Ethiopian players can acquire cryptocurrency through: (1) International exchanges like Binance or Coinbase using international credit cards, (2) Peer-to-peer platforms like Paxful or LocalBitcoins where you can buy crypto from other individuals, (3) Cryptocurrency ATMs in major cities (limited availability). Once purchased, transfer crypto to a personal wallet before depositing to betting sites for security.

The Future of Betting in Ethiopia

The December 2025 shutdown marks the most dramatic regulatory intervention in any African betting market. With allegations of $850 million in concealed revenue, 112+ arrests, and complete license revocations, the Ethiopian government has sent a clear message about regulatory compliance.

Will Betting Return to Ethiopia?

The future remains uncertain. The government has not announced:

• Whether new licenses will ever be issued
• What regulatory framework would govern future operations
• How tax structures might change
• Whether foreign operators would be allowed

Industry analysts suggest any return of regulated betting would require:

• Complete regulatory overhaul with stronger oversight
• Enhanced financial transparency requirements
• Mandatory responsible gambling measures
• Stricter anti-money laundering protocols
• Potentially years of regulatory restructuring

What This Means for Ethiopian Bettors

For the immediate future, Ethiopian betting enthusiasts face limited options:

1. Use international betting sites (operating in legal grey area)
2. Wait for regulatory changes (timeline unknown)
3. Consider alternatives (fantasy sports, skill-based gaming where available)

The most practical approach for Ethiopian bettors is to use established international platforms with strong reputations (1XBet, 22bet, Betway, Melbet) while remaining aware that regulations could change at any time.

Conclusion & Final Recommendations

The Ethiopian betting landscape has changed dramatically following the December 2025 regulatory shutdown. What was once a thriving market with 18 licensed operators, 90 million Telebirr accounts integrated for betting, and over 70% mobile betting adoption has transformed into a market dependent on international operators.

Before you opt for an international betting site, you'll find it valuable to do these things:

1. Understand the legal situation: No Ethiopian-licensed betting is currently legal. International sites operate in a grey area.
2. Prioritize cryptocurrency payment options: With local mobile money integration severed, crypto offers the most reliable deposit/withdrawal method.
3. Choose established operators: Stick with well-known sites like 22bet (former Ethiopian license holder), 1XBet, Melbet, or Betway rather than new platforms with limited track records.
4. Verify country restrictions: Avoid sites like Ivibet and 20Bet that explicitly prohibit Ethiopian players despite appearing on many guides.
5. Start with small deposits: Test withdrawal processes with smaller amounts before committing significant funds.
6. Bet responsibly: Remember the legal gambling age is 21 years in Ethiopia, and only bet what you can afford to lose.

My Top Recommendations for Ethiopian Players (December 2025):

Best Overall Choice: 22bet - Former Ethiopian license holder with extensive local market experience, good odds, multiple payment options including crypto, solid mobile app.

Best for High Odds: 1XBet - Consistently offers 2-5% better odds than competitors, extensive sports coverage, cryptocurrency support.

Best for Crypto Users: BetLabel or Blitz-bet.io - Extensive cryptocurrency support, fast processing, minimal KYC requirements.

Best for Mobile: Betway - Industry-leading mobile app, though requires stable internet connection.

Best for Trust: BetRebels - Malta Gaming Authority license provides higher regulatory oversight than Curaçao alternatives.

You don't have to use the same site as your best friend, instead use the one that matches your needs, whether that's the best cryptocurrency integration, highest odds, or strongest mobile experience.

The Ethiopian betting market will likely evolve significantly in coming months and years. Stay informed about regulatory changes, bet responsibly, and choose sites with established track records over new platforms making unrealistic promises.

Final Note: This article reflects the situation as of December 28, 2025. The regulatory environment may change rapidly. Always verify current legal status and site availability before registering or depositing funds.

You've got the knowledge you need to navigate this changed landscape. Choose wisely, bet responsibly, and may your selections come through!