Study: 64% of surveyed adults in Aruba gamble, with lotteries dominating

Study: 64% of surveyed adults in Aruba gamble, with lotteries dominating

Posted on 10/30/2026, 7:12 AM AST | Updated on 10/30/2026, 7:55 AM AST

ORANJESTAD — A new scientific study reveals how deeply gambling is embedded in everyday life in Aruba. According to the Onderzoek Kansspeldeelname Aruba study, 64% of surveyed adults participated in at least one form of gambling during the past 12 months. The research was conducted by RE-Quest Research & Consultancy among 720 adult residents of Aruba, commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK), in cooperation with the Aruba Gambling Authority, which is currently being established.

LOTTERIES ARE THE MOST POPULAR

The findings show that lotteries dominate Aruba's gambling market. Among all respondents, 49% participated in lotteries during the past year, compared with 15% who played casino games and 13% who participated in raffles and prize draws. Researchers point to accessibility as one of the main reasons for the popularity of lotteries. Sales outlets are located in shops and other places residents regularly visit. Casinos, meanwhile, are primarily concentrated in tourist areas, although some establishments also attract local players.

WINNING MONEY IS THE MAIN MOTIVATION

The study found that 64% of gamblers identified winning money as their main motivation. Other reasons included entertainment (24%), passing time (15%), social interaction (10%), and stress relief (10%). Most gamblers participate at relatively modest levels. According to the study, 55% spend less than Afl. 20 per week, while 18% spend more than Afl. 50. However, 31% gamble weekly, and 4% do so daily.

AN ACTIVITY EMBEDDED IN THE COMMUNITY

The research confirms that gambling extends well beyond casinos. It is part of Aruba's social, family, and economic life. Some 55% of respondents know a partner, family member, or close friend who participated in gambling during the past year. The findings raise an important question for authorities: How can an activity so deeply integrated into everyday life in Aruba be regulated without disregarding its recreational and social role? Researchers recommend that future oversight should focus not only on casinos but also on lotteries and other forms of gambling. While the study demonstrates widespread participation, this does not mean that all gamblers suffer from gambling addiction. Click HERE for the complete report.