This case study explores how an iGaming offer was tested and scaled in the MENA region, with a focus on identifying high-performing setups and achieving consistent deposit volumes.
Campaign Overview
- Offer: iGaming platform (betting + casino)
- Traffic source: TrafficStars
- Region: MENA
- Period: May 2025 – July 2025
How the test started
The first step was to identify which landing pages performed best. A split test was launched using popunder traffic as the initial source. For iGaming offers, this format is a go-to: it allows for quick access to large traffic volumes and clean performance data on landing pages — without the need to spend time on creative production.
The campaign launched with two top adult traffic sources — xHamster and Eporner. The choice was driven by two key factors: strong traffic volumes and proven profitability with other iGaming offers. Separate campaigns were set up for each GEO to ensure accurate tracking and performance analysis.
Campaign Setup
The campaign started with mid-range CPM bids recommended by the platform. This approach allowed for faster data collection and early access to higher-quality traffic. A frequency cap of 1 impression per user per day was also set.
The xHamster source was always run in separate campaigns.This allowed for closer bid monitoring and a more detailed analysis of traffic performance from this specific source. The advertiser’s top 5 landing pages were used, testing three main angles: slots, betting, and crash. For tracking and performance analysis, Keitaro was used.
Scaling
After 14 days, the data was analyzed and the first round of optimization was carried out. Out of all tested angles, betting and crash performed best in terms of average deposit value and traffic quality. The focus then shifted to GEOs where the numbers aligned with KPIs — Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Iraq, and Jordan — followed by scaling. For these countries, bids on xHamster and Eporner were increased to drive more traffic volume.
At the same time, additional campaigns were launched targeting top GEOs across Prime (top-performing placements in the network) and RON (run-of-network, without selecting specific sites). xHamster and Eporner were not included, as they were already running in separate campaigns. Only the top-performing landing pages from the initial test were used.
Further optimization focused on traffic sources only. Underperforming placements were cut, while bids and volume were increased on top-performing ones.
Results
Final campaign performance (May — July 2025):
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Test Budget | $30,331 | Total budget for the testing period |
| Sign-ups | 1,875 | Total number of confirmed accounts |
| FTD | 1,536 | First-time deposits |
| Click2Reg | 0.01% | 1 click = 1 popunder impression |
| Reg2Dep | 81.9% | Including delayed conversions and retargeting |
| Cost per registration | $16.17 | Cost per acquired user |
| Cost per FTD | $19.75 | Final cost per deposit |
| FTD2STD | 66% | Repeat deposits (90-day retention) |
| ROI | >200% | Revenue on ad spend |
Even though Click2Reg may seem low, this is a standard benchmark for popunder traffic. The high Reg2Dep (81.9%) and FTD2STD (66%) rates were driven by strong retention marketing on the advertiser’s side, along with high user engagement in the MENA region. Overall, the traffic pays off within 3–6 months.
