In a recent development, the Ministry of Interior in Thailand has unveiled a ministerial regulation that extends the operating hours for clubs and bars in major provinces, allowing them to remain open until 4 a.m., effective from December 15. Additionally, venues hosting New Year celebrations will enjoy an extended window until 6 a.m. on New Year’s Day as part of a special provision.
This government initiative, aimed at enhancing the nightlife scene in significant urban areas, is poised for implementation through the newly announced ministerial regulation. It enables clubs and bars in key provinces, including Bangkok, Phuket, Chonburi, Chiang Mai, and Ko Samui, to extend their operating hours until the early morning.
Ms. Traisuree Taisaranakul, the spokesperson at the Ministry of Interior, confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has signed off on the regulation. The extension is applicable to entertainment venues within these specified areas, as well as those housed within hostels, irrespective of their geographic location.
Additionally, for New Year festivities, entertainment venues nationwide will be permitted to operate from New Year’s Eve on December 31 until 6 a.m. on New Year’s Day, providing an extended celebratory period.
The forthcoming official announcement of this regulation in the Royal Gazette solidifies its implementation, ensuring the new operating hours will be effective from December 15 onward.
Ms. Traisuree emphasized that this directive aligns with the guidance of Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Srettha Thavisin, underscoring the government’s efforts to overhaul regulations concerning entertainment venues, aiming to bolster tourism activities within the country.
