RubyPlay boosts South Africa's reach via partnership
RubyPlay, a studio-based layered content ecosystem, has deepened its presence in South Africa through a new partnership with World Sports Betting, one of the country’s most established bookmakers. Under the deal, RubyPlay Studios’ popular titles include Elephant Stampede, Diamond Explosion® 7s, and Mayan Cache. They will be integrated into World Sports Betting’s online platform, giving players access to proven fan favourites.
As a leading sportsbooks and casino operator, World Sports Betting has built a strong reputation since its launch in 2002. It continues to offer sports betting, racing, and online gaming, both in retail and digitally.
Strategic market focus
South Africa remains one of RubyPlay’s market priorities since entering the region in 2023. This year, gross gambling revenue is projected to reach about $5 billion, up from $4.2 billion in 2025, a 13 per cent year-on-year increase. This growth is driven by mobile adoption, AI-powered platforms, and regulatory shifts. Moreover, online gambling has posted a 35 per cent CAGR between 2021 and 2026, highlighting strong momentum.
For instance, over 85 per cent of online GGR comes from mobile devices, making smartphones the primary channel for betting and gaming. In other words, players prefer quick-access apps and mobile-optimised sites for sports betting and slots.
Regulatory landscape
South Africa allows online sports betting but not online casino gaming, as it is banned under federal law. Still, offshore operators continue to attract South African players, thus establishing a grey area between demand and regulation.
In addition, a proposed 20 per cent national online GGR tax and ongoing debates around the Remote Gambling Bill suggest possible legalisation of online casinos in the near future. Meanwhile, the National Gambling Board and provincial regulators are tightening compliance, increasingly using AI tools to detect fraud and monitor responsible gaming.
Executive insights
Dima Reiderman, Chief Commercial Officer at RubyPlay, emphasised the significance of the partnership: “South Africa has been a real focus for us since we entered the market three years ago, and the traction we have seen in that time makes this partnership with World Sports Betting a genuinely engaging one.”
COO of World Sports Betting, Ryno Du Plessis, highlighted the alignment of strategies: “Our focus is on delivering a high-quality iGaming experience, with standout content playing a key role. RubyPlay stands out not only for the strength of its portfolio, but for its clear approach to game development and delivery.”
Market impact
With this latest collaboration, RubyPlay strengthens its position in one of the continent’s most dynamic markets. For one, content integration improves World Sports Betting’s platform. At the same time, the partnership mirrors the increasing presence of supplier-operator collaborations in regulated environments.
The iGaming market in South Africa remains highly competitive. More than 270 active brands generate an estimated $2.3 billion competitive earnings baseline (CEB), according to media reports. Moreover, leading operators, mobile-first adoption, and regulated sports betting continue to drive growth.
RubyPlay’s partnership also positions itself against established rivals such as Betway, Hollywoodbets, and Supabets, all competing for market share in a partially regulated environment.
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