Syrian authorities impose alcohol ban in Damascus

Tuesday 17 March 2026 - 15:00

Damascus authorities have issued a decree banning the sale of alcohol in restaurants and bars, signaling a significant step by the Islamist-led government toward enforcing conservative social norms since the removal of President Bashar al-Assad 15 months ago.

The decree, issued by the Damascus governorate, requires nightclub and bar licenses to be converted into café licenses and limits alcohol sales to sealed bottles for takeaway only in predominantly Christian neighborhoods. Establishments selling alcohol must also be at least 75 meters away from places of worship and schools, and 20 meters from security facilities. Bar owners have been given three months to comply.

Some business owners have expressed frustration with the new rules. One bar owner said he would close his establishment rather than convert it into a dry café, citing declining customer numbers and the lack of demand for non-alcoholic services like pizza or shisha.

The policy reflects a broader shift in Syria’s governance, as the current administration implements stricter regulations consistent with its conservative ideology. Observers note that this move may further affect the city’s nightlife and tourism sectors.