Best Betting Sites in Ethiopia: Our Betting in Ethiopia List
Ethiopians are well-known for being huge sports fans. Thanks to a large number of bookmakers, locals enjoy placing bets on football, basketball, and cycling. Also, the best betting sites Ethiopia offer lightweight apps to perform on budget smartphones locals use. This creates a demand among sports fans in the country who look for excitement and big wins. In this article, we will look through established and new betting sites in Ethiopia that offer top sports, competitive odds, safe payment methods, and attractive bonuses in 2025.
According to the Ethiopian Business Review, the local betting market is currently gaining momentum. As of 2025, there are 5 licensed bookmakers and 5 under establishment.
What Betting Companies in Ethiopia Are Worth Checking This Year?
After thorough examinations of available platforms, our experts handpicked these 10 betting companies in Ethiopia. Each of these sites can be easily accessed from a desktop or mobile device. They offer attractive welcome bonuses and give high odds on the Ethiopian Premier League, the English Premier League, Champions League, and LaLiga matches.
- 1xBet
- Melbet
- Betwinner
- Paripesa
- Megapari
- 1xBit
- 22Bet
- 1Win
- FerBet
- MarathonBet
New Betting Sites in Ethiopia and What Makes Them Stand Out
The Ethiopian sports betting market is expanding rapidly, offering local bettors more places to bet, claim bonuses, and watch matches live. We analyzed new betting sites in Ethiopia, aiming to find out what features they offer and why you would want to bet on them.
Paripesa
The betting site has been operating since 2019 and quickly became a favorite spot for Ethiopians. The site offers a user-friendly interface and localized payment methods. Among the platform’s pros are:
- 27+ disciplines including football, MMA, cricket, tennis, and basketball
- 500+ football events daily
- 100% first deposit bonus
- Local payment methods, including M-Birr, HelloCash, AirTM, and Perfect Money.
Megapari
Just like the previous site, Megapari was launched in 2019 and instantly drew the attention of African bettors. The platform stands out for a range of promotions and sports. The reasons to try out Megapari are:
- 25+ sports, including football, ice hockey, volleyball, and horse racing
- Quick email or phone registration
- 5,000 sports events daily
- Live streams available
BetWinner
BetWinner was also introduced to bettors worldwide, including Ethiopians, in 2019. At the moment, the company has 400,000 users with active bettors from Africa. The main advantages of joining BetWinner include:
- 30+ sports, with the most popular being football, basketball, tennis, MMA, and cricket
- In-play betting and live streaming features are available
- 100% match deposit bonus for newbies
- Great performance on mobile devices.
The State of Sport Betting in Ethiopia Today
Sport betting in Ethiopia is overseen by the National Lottery Administration Re-Establishment Council of Ministers Regulation (2009) and the Sports-Betting Lottery Directive No. 172/2021. The National Lottery Administration issues licenses and ensures local operators protect users. The Sports-Betting Lottery Directive works to set detailed rules for operations.
Online sports betting has become legal, so Ethiopians have had time to understand how this gambling activity works. Currently, the number of Ethiopian betting sites leaves much to be desired. However, the number of offshore sites that hold licenses like Curacao or Anjuan is pretty impressive. Foreign bookmakers tend to offer large bonuses and more markets while maintaining support for localized payment methods.
Please check the table below to learn the main facts about the state of sports betting in Ethiopia as of 2025.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Ethiopia |
| Language | Afar, Amharic, Oromo, Somali, Tigrinya |
| Currency | Ethiopian Birr (ETB) |
| Year sports betting legalized | 2012 |
| Legal gambling age | 21 |
| Regulatory body | National Lottery Administration (NLA) |
| Tax | 15% |
| Availability of offshore betting sites | Yes |
| Supported payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, M-Birr, HelloCash, AirTM, Perfect Money |
Based on a recent study, “Regulating and mitigating the risks of youth sports betting in Ethiopia,” the country is focusing more on profit than player protection. The regulatory body must implement stringent criteria for establishing betting operations, identify and support individuals at risk of gambling addiction, and lower maximum payout thresholds.
Our Criteria to Choosing Ethiopian Betting Online Platforms
As sports bettors ourselves, we understand the importance of using bookmakers that are legit. That is why we have strict criteria that each Ethiopian betting online platform must meet before they are added to our list.
License
If you want to stay safe while online, you must use a licensed bookmaker. A local bookmaker must be licensed by NLA, while an international one must be licensed by Curacao, Anjuan, or another recognized regulatory body.
Bonuses
Our comprehensive list of betting sites in Ethiopia offers all types of generous promotions. Expect to claim a welcome bonus, a cashback deal, a free bet, and a booster after registration. The recommended sites have clear and fair terms and conditions attached to them.
Variety of betting markets
The best betting sites in Ethiopia provide all types of bets, such as moneyline, handicap, prop bets, totals, and more. Choose the betting market that suits your style and bet with confidence.
Payment options
Simplicity is key when it comes to placing a wager and withdrawing your wins. We strive to find websites with localized bank card, bank transfer, e-wallet, and cryptocurrency options. Our experts check payout speed, fees, and whether you need to pass verification to cash out your winnings.
Customer support
An open communication with helpful, knowledgeable and friendly support staff makes the world of difference. We only add bookmakers that offer reliable email support and professional live chat support 24/7.
Beginners Guide to Signing Up, Making a Bet and Caging Out Wins
It may come across as intimidating and difficult, but placing a bet at a bookmaker is rather easy. Sites for betting Ethiopia are user-friendly once you understand the basics. You can create an account, place a bet, and maybe even win in minutes. Here are a few simple steps on how you can start your journey.
- Sign up and open an account
Choose one of the sportsbooks from our list or find a licensed one yourself. Provide your name, email address, date of birth, address, and mobile phone number. Create a strong password and username.
- Verify your account
The majority of sites will require proof of identity. You must provide your ID, proof of address, and payment method within the framework of the NLA.
- Make your first deposit
At this stage, you need to add funds to your betting account. You can choose from a variety of payment methods, such as bank cards, e-wallets, mobile payment systems, prepaid cards, and even crypto. Make sure to meet the minimum deposit requirements.
- Understand your betting options
Start by reviewing different sports markets and odds. In sports betting, there are various bets such as moneyline, totals, prop bets, point spreads, and more.
- Make your bet
Get familiar with predictions, or choose the odds that offer the highest profit. Now choose the amount you want to bet. Before confirming, check your bet slip. It must show your chosen events, odds, and potential payout.
- Watch the bet unfold
On most bookmaker sites, you can watch the sporting event live. If you choose to bet live, you can adjust your wagers as the events unfold.
- Cashout winnings
If Lady Luck is on your side and your bet wins, it's time to cash out. The account balance will update instantly after a win. Proceed to the cashier section, choose the payment method as well as the amount, and withdraw. Please note that the cash-out times vary, depending on the payment method chosen.
Where Do Most Bets Go: Top 5 Sports
Are you curious to find out what sports have the highest odds on Ethiopian betting sites? Here are the 5 sports locals spend their money on.
- Football
It is not only the most popular sport in Ethiopia, but it is the most popular sport on the planet. There are huge fan bases in the country, with local broadcast stations making it easy to watch for locals. The national league is currently known as the BetKing Ethiopian Premier League. Ethiopian football fans enjoy betting on the English Premier League, Champions League, and the Spanish league, LaLiga.
- Athletics
Long-distance running is extremely popular in Ethiopia, as the country has had so many world-class distance runners. Athletics competitions happen across the world and throughout the year, making it ideal for betting. Local and national running events take place and attract local bettors, especially when well-known runners compete. Marathons like Boston, London, Chicago, and Berlin always attract big betting.
- Basketball
Basketball is a growing sport in the country, with many youngsters getting involved from urban areas. As there are so many betting opportunities, African bettors enjoy wagering on this sport. The local basketball league is run by the Ethiopian Basketball Federation, and bettors place bets on the national team, too. Internationally, the NBA creates a buzz in the country with lots of bets taking place on the league.
- Tennis
As there are matches almost every day during the tennis season, it is a popular sport to bet on. There are a few local and regional African tournaments that are popular when local tennis players are playing. When it comes to international events, Wimbledon, the US Open, the French Open, and the Australian Open are heavily bet on by locals.
- Esports
This is a sport that has grown steadily over the last decade and is very popular with the younger bettors in Ethiopia. There is constant action and always tournaments taking place, so bettors can always get in on the action. There are very few local esports competitions; the majority take place online. International tournaments include Dota 2, League of Legends, and FIFA Esports.
Promotions to Elevate Your Ethiopian Betting Experience
Promotions are certainly worth searching for if you want to enhance your Ethiopian betting experience. Local and foreign bookmakers offer lucrative bonuses, competing for your attention. Here, we decided to explain the types of bonuses you can expect after signing up.
- Free bet: Just as it sounds, bettors get to take a free bet from a platform with no risk attached. It is the perfect bet for beginners who are looking to dip their toe in and check the water. If the bet wins, you will get the winnings minus the stake.
- Welcome bonus: A popular and common way to welcome new bettors to a site after they have completed their sign-up. A welcome bonus allows players to grab a 100% deposit match bonus on their first deposit. This means bettors are getting the opportunity to add funds to their bankroll.
- Accumulator boost: An accumulator bet is when you combine several bets into one. Many sportsbooks offer a percentage of your winnings. The more bets you add to your accumulator, the more the boost will be. This means the bigger the potential payout.
- Cashback bonus: There are good and bad days in sports betting. As this activity is subject to risk, you must face the fact that you can lose. Luckily, sportsbooks give locals from 5% to 20% back of their net losses.
- Refer a friend: This is a clever way for a bookmaker site to grow, as the platform offers a reward if your friend signs up and makes a deposit using your referral link. Both you and your friend will be eligible for either a free bet or extra funds.
Trusted Payment Methods for Ethiopian Sports Fans
Using local Ethiopian payment methods is the most secure and fastest way to make a deposit. Local methods operate in Ethiopian Birr (ETP) and avoid foreign exchange charges, which is always good. Please check our table with all local options, their strengths, and weaknesses.
| Payment method | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telebirr | A mobile money service where users register with an app. It is possible to send and receive money and make withdrawals through an agent. | Smartphone users can use Birr or USSD with low fees. | Maximum limits and ID requirements. |
| CBE Birr | A digital money service in association with the Bank of Ethiopia. It allows USSD transfers, and users can send via mobile apps. | A trusted bank-based method, so security is strong. Easy integration with bank accounts. Low charges for local transfers. | Slower cashout times. Users require a bank account. |
| M-Pesa Ethiopia | A mobile money service from Safaricom. Allows you to receive and send money and works in a similar way to Telebirr. | Respected method with solid security. Cross-platform features. | Less acceptance as it is considered a newer option. Verification slows the process down resulting in higher fees. |
| HelloCash | A mobile money service that allows instant deposits and withdrawals. | No bank account required for transactions. | Occasional network disruption issues. |
| AirTM | A popular digital wallet that supports multiple currencies. | No access to your bank account required. | Integration with local betting platforms is limited. Currency exchange fees may apply. |
| Perfect Money | A popular digital wallet that supports multiple fiat and cryptocurrencies. | Widely accepted at betting platforms. | High fees applied. |
| Visa/Mastercard | World-renowned bank cards. | Best for deposits/withdrawals at international sportsbooks. | Rarely accepted by local bookmakers. Slower withdrawals. |
| Cryptocurrencies | Digital currencies like BTC, ETH, LTC, USDT, etc. | Almost anonymous transactions. Mainly accepted at foreign betting sites. Instant cashouts. | Not yet regulated in Ethiopia. Requires a crypto wallet. |
Telebirr is considered the major payment method in the country. Between 2024 and 2025, this method surpassed 54 million users. Thanks to accessibility anywhere at any time, bettors can fund their accounts and bet on the move and claim promotions.
Quick Recap Before You Place Your First Bet
- All Ethiopian-based online sportsbooks must be licensed by the National Lottery Administration (NLA). Offshore bookmakers must hold recognized licenses like Curacao, Anjuan, etc.
- The NLA must enhance players' protection by implementing advertising bans, mental health screening, and lowering payout limits.
- Ethiopians tend to use fast and convenient payment methods that include Telebirr, AirTM, and crypto. Together with mobile betting, it drives a growing demand, especially among young sports fans.
FAQ
Is online sports betting legal in Ethiopia?
Yes, it became legal back in 2012 and is now overseen by the National Lottery Administration. All local bookmakers must apply for a license from the NLA before providing their services to bettors in the country.
Are offshore sportsbooks allowed in Ethiopia?
Yes, there are a large number of international betting sites, most of which we discussed in this review. Foreign bookmakers are licensed by Curacao or Anjuan gambling licenses and allow the use of crypto.
Do Ethiopian sports betting sites require verification?
Yes. When creating an account, you must provide a copy of your ID. All NLA licensed betting companies in Ethiopia accept bettors who are 21 years old.
What are the fastest withdrawal methods at local bookmakers?
Use Telebirr or AirTM for the fastest cashouts. Telebirr is known for instant transactions. AirTM processes withdrawals within 1 day.