UK tourists could be slapped with huge fine for breaking 24-hour alcohol ban this week
The ban comes into effect at 6pm on February 7
A 24-hour ban on alcohol will be imposed in Thailand this weekend, with a serious punishment for those found not complying. While the general election is taking place in Thailand later this week, the public consumption of alcohol will be prohibited for 24 hours - starting at 6pm on Saturday (February 7).
The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Brits heading to Thailand during this period to warn of the 'alcohol restriction' in place. The ban will remain in place until 6pm on Sunday 8 February.
It prohibits the public consumption of alcohol during this period, and the rules apply to convenience stores, bars, restaurants as well as private and public entertainment venues. Those found to be not complying with the ban could face fines of up to 10,000 baht (around £231) or face up to six months imprisonment.
An update on the gov.uk website which shares its travel advice for Thailand is titled: "General election and alcohol restrictions".
"Thailand will hold a General Election on 8 February 2026," the Foreign Office advice reads. "A nationwide ban on the sale and distribution of alcohol will be in place from 6pm on 7 February until 6pm on 8 February."
It explains that during this period, the public consumption of alcohol is prohibited, including at social gatherings. The restrictions apply to convenience stores, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, both public and private.
The warning adds: "If you do not comply with these restrictions, you could face fines of up to 10,000 baht and up to 6 months’ imprisonment."
The Thai general election is set to be held in Thailand on 8 February, which will determine the composition of the House of Representatives. On top of the general election, a referendum will be held on the same day which will determine whether the 2017 constitution should be replaced with a new one.