@article{article_1595630, title={The Ethical Debate: Gambling and Religious Perspectives in Zanzibar}, journal={Cihannüma Sosyal Bilimler Akademi Dergisi}, volume={3}, pages={39–62}, year={2025}, DOI={10.55205/jocsosa.3220241595630}, author={Abdalla, Moh’d}, keywords={Gambling, Islamic Ethics, Zanzibar, Globalization, Social Impact, Religious Perspectives}, abstract={Gambling in Zanzibar represents a critical intersection of religious ethics and modern influences, making it a vital area of study for understanding how traditional societies navigate globalization. As the archipelago becomes increasingly exposed to global trends through tourism and digital media, its strong Islamic values face new challenges, particularly among youth who often view gambling as harmless entertainment rather than a moral transgression. This study is crucial as it examines the cultural and religious implications of gambling, offering insights into how Islamic teachings can guide ethical decision-making in a rapidly changing society. From an Islamic perspective, gambling is strictly prohibited (haram) as it violates principles of fair wealth acquisition and promotes chance over merit. In Zanzibar, where Islam deeply influences societal norms, religious teachings consistently emphasize gambling’s harm to personal integrity and financial stability. This study explores these ethical foundations through textual analysis of Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) and community surveys, revealing how religious values shape public attitudes toward gambling. The findings demonstrate the tension between preserving Islamic ethics and accommodating modern economic realities, particularly in a region where tourism driven gambling presents both opportunities and moral dilemmas. Ultimately, this article provides valuable insights for policymakers, religious leaders, and educators seeking to address gambling’s societal impacts while upholding Islamic values. By combining ethical analysis with empirical data, the study offers a framework for developing regulations that respect religious principles while acknowledging contemporary challenges. As Zanzibar balances its Islamic identity with global influences, this work underscores the importance of grounding societal development in moral and ethical considerations, ensuring progress that aligns with the community’s deepest values. The study’s mixed-method approach integrating interviews, doctrinal analysis, and surveys ensures a comprehensive understanding of gambling’s complex role in Zanzibar’s evolving social landscape.}, number={2}, publisher={Cihannüma Dayanışma ve İşbirliği Derneği}