Acceptable Dress Code at South Africa’s Casinos

After the National Gambling Act was signed in 1996, gaming and betting in South Africa has exploded. Casinos have begun popping up along the south coast, around the capital, and in several other areas of the state. Of course, having a long history of restricted gambling, casino etiquette is not something that is quite as ingrained here as it might be in other nations of the world.

There’s no shortage of potential stumbling blocks to get your head around too. From ensuring you don’t “splash the pot” when at the poker table, to tipping your dealer after a lengthy session, or proper procedure for cashing out at the table, there’s a whole host of ways that you can slip up, exposing yourself a complete casino newbie in front of a table full of seasoned high rollers. One basic thing that many first timers worry about is a dress code.

What to wear when visiting a casino in South Africa

Whilst it’s always advisable to doublecheck before leaving the house, generally speaking, wherever you are in the world, casinos will not require a dress code. Many inexperienced casino goers will see the designer dress suits of the gentleman encircling the roulette wheel, or the glamourous dresses of the ladies sipping cocktails at the bar, and wrongly presume that everyone must make a superhuman effort to be allowed to play. Sure, it can be nice to get all glammed up for a night out but it’s not strictly necessary.

Whilst there will always be some exceptions casinos are generally happy provided you have money in your pockets, and a willingness to part with it. There will often be an explicit “no dress code” policy advertised at many gambling venues. That said, extremely exclusive locations may enforce a different rule, and certain events may alter a casino’s usual grounds for admission.

The wrong outfit could potentially ruin your plans

One personal experience I had relating to casino dress codes happened when attempting to register for the Indian Championship of Poker. As a former professional player online, I’ve visited a lot of casinos. I’ve never made a huge effort on the dressing up front, but was always neatly presented and looked smart. The event itself was being held in the capital of Goa, Panaji, in South India. Being as the temperature was up into the 40s, I’d worn smart shorts (knee length), a belt, a light shirt, and proper shoes. I hadn’t even bothered to look at the casino dress code, arrogantly assuming there wouldn’t be a problem based on my experiences at many fancier venues in scruffier attire. When I arrived at the casino, I was informed I wouldn’t allowed to play wearing shorts.

After a futile discussion, and some desperate pleas on my behalf, I ended up having to register for the tournament late following some last-minute clothes shopping for an emergency pair of trousers. Whilst this is the only time I’ve been barred entry to casino, it’s still well worth querying either online, or giving the reception a quick call with regards to a dress code – especially during events like the IPC.

If in doubt, play it safe

If you’re in any doubt, go for the smart/casual look. Try to avoid trainers, sandals, shorts, and t-shirts. Remember, it can be part of the fun to get into your Sunday best for a trip down to the casino, particularly if you’re on holiday. Looking the part with your date on your arm, and hitting up the cocktail bar followed by the Blackjack table is as fine a way as any to spend a Saturday evening. On the other hand, if you’re planning on grinding out a mammoth twenty-hour cash game over in the poker room, it will definitely be worth checking what the comfiest clothing you’ll be allowed to wear inside the venue is.