Chess and Gambling Instruments: Is It Permissible to Play Chess or Billiards with Non-Muslims Abroad Without Betting?

Practical Laws of Islam as per the teachings of Imam Khamenei

Chess and Gambling Instruments: Is It Permissible to Play Chess or Billiards with Non-Muslims Abroad Without Betting?

English:

Question #1113:

What is the ruling on playing chess and billiard, for example, with non-Muslims in foreign countries? And what is the ruling on money spent in this avenue, although not in betting?

Answer #1113:

We have already dealt with the subject of playing with chess and gambling instruments in the preceding questions. However, the ruling is universal insofar as engaging in such an activity, i.e., be it in Muslim or foreign countries. Playing with Muslims or non-Muslims is also immaterial. It is not permissible to sell or buy gambling instruments, or spend any money in such an avenue.

-Imam Khamenei, Practical Laws of Islam, Importance and Conditions of Chess and Gambling Instruments