Small gaming clubs and slot halls (Suriname)

Brief context

Historically, Paramaribo has developed a network of small gaming halls with a bet on slots and a limited number of tables. Most of the facilities are concentrated in the capital and central neighborhoods (Waterkant and adjacent streets). Guidebooks and catalogs record that the country's key gaming infrastructure is actually concentrated in Paramaribo.

Since September 13, 2023, the updated Wet Hazardspelen has been operating. The basic rule for land-based casinos: operation is allowed only inside the hotel at least 3 under the supervision of the Gaming Control Board Suriname (GCBS). This means that the market for "small halls" had to adapt: work at hotels/as part of hotel complexes, enlarge or rebuild the format.

Legal framework for "small halls" (after 2023)

Location: Casinos must be inside a 3 + hotel. The requirement is universal and applies to the entire ground segment - including small halls.

Oversight: GCBS controls compliance; the regulator officially publishes applicable laws and clarifications.

Adaptation practice: part of the "street" slot halls historically arose outside large hotels. After the reform, they either integrate with hotel facilities, or work as part of hotel clusters, or close/change the format - the compliance process proceeds as supervision intensifies. (The conclusion is based on a comparison of the new norm and current site guides.)

What small clubs and slot halls look like in the capital

Profile: 50-200 + slots, sometimes - 1-4 tables (roulette/blackjack), compact room, ticket office, bar. The emphasis is on evening traffic and guests of accommodation centers. In some cases, extended hours are indicated (until late at night). An example is Magic Island Casino at Waterkant 71-73: according to public directories - a slot-oriented site with a working hours of approximately 10: 00-04: 00.

Other properties that often mention catalogs and travel sites (slot/compact format): Atlantis, Elegance, Dice Hotel & Casino (urban option "hotel + 24/7"). The specific parameters of the halls vary, so it is better to clarify the hours/set of games before the visit.

Where to look for such sites (Paramaribo geography)

The Waterkant promenade and historic centre is a showcase of the town and a concentration point for small halls (example: Magic Island).

Hotel clusters - a number of "small" sites are built into gostinitsy/butіk hotels to meet the requirements of the law (Dice is a typical example of the urban complex "hotel + casino").

Player recommendations

1. Check the binding to the hotel. After the reform, look for sites inside 3 + hotels - this is an indicator of compliance with basic requirements.

2. See operating mode and address. For a hall like Magic Island, the estimated schedule is 10: 00-04: 00 and the exact address on Waterkant is convenient to combine with a walk in the center.

3. Hold ID. Age/document entry is the standard for Suriname.

4. Check with GCBS and up-to-date catalogs. Site lists and statuses are changing - it is better to rely on the latest publications of the regulator and updated reference books.

A short comparable portrait of a small hall (example from open data)

Location: Paramaribo Center/Waterkant;

Profile: slots prevail; compact tables - optional;

Hours: until late at night (often ~ 10: 00-04: 00);

Format: independent entrance or entrance through the hotel building, bar/cafe nearby;

Target audience: guests of the surrounding hotels and local visitors to the evening quarters.

Why it matters to your content

The segment of "small gaming halls" in Suriname is noticeable for a tourist and a local player, but in 2025 it is described through the prism of compliance: binding to a 3 + hotel, public hours/address and transparency of work are critical. Indicate these markers in the cards on the site so that the material meets the current norm and readers' expectations.

Sources

Wet Hazardspelen (S.B. 2023 No. 135) - the norm on the mandatory placement of casinos in 3 + hotels.

GCBS - "Wet- en Regelgeving" - a set of current laws and oversight.

Trip/maps and catalogs for Paramaribo (locations, hours, slot profile of small halls): Magic Island Casino (Waterkant 71-73), lists/reviews of the capital's casinos.