PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s nightlife sector is celebrating after the government, under the direction of Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, announced plans to abolish zoning regulations for alcohol sales and extend nightlife venue operating hours to 4 AM nationwide — up from the current 2 AM limit. The move, expected to take effect by January 2026, also includes lifting the ban on alcohol sales between 2 PM and 5 PM and replacing the current licensing system with a simpler venue registration model.
Authorities believe the reform could generate over 500 billion baht in annual tax revenue and revitalize the country’s nightlife-driven economy.
Currently, extended 4 AM closing hours are allowed only in select areas — Bangkok, Chonburi (Pattaya), Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui (Surat Thani) — as per the Ministry of Interior’s 2023 regulation.
Lisa Hamilton, President of the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association (PNBA), welcomed the policy:
“This is fantastic news for nightlife operators, especially those outside the official zoning areas who have long lost business opportunities. The previous extension to 4 AM benefited only venues in zoned areas like Walking Street, where sales surged and tourists felt more relaxed. Extending hours across all areas will ensure fair competition, spread income, and bring the city’s nightlife back to life.”
Lisa added that removing zoning restrictions will allow more balanced tourism activity throughout Pattaya rather than just concentrated zones, benefiting local workers and the broader service sector.
If implemented as planned, the policy is expected to revive Pattaya’s nightlife, boost tourism revenue by tens of billions of baht, and enhance Thailand’s global appeal as a 24-hour tourism destination.
