The Ministry of Interior and Police has given in to business interests and the relationship of alcohol with holiday spirit in the Dominican Republic.
The Ministry of Interior and Police announced on Tuesday, 10 December 2024 that alcohol sales hours will be extended for the holiday season, starting this Sunday, 15 December 2024, and lasting until 3 January 2025. This relaxation of regulations will allow bars, clubs, restaurants, and other establishments to stay open later during the festive period.
Under the new guidelines, discotheques, bars, clubs, restaurants, event centers, piano bars and casinos can operate until 3am from Sunday to Thursday and until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays. Notably, there will be no restrictions on alcohol sales on Christmas Eve (December 24th) and New Year’s Eve (December 31st).
However, the extended hours do not apply to “colmadones,” or the smaller establishments such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and liquor shops, cafeterias or car wash businesses, which must still close at midnight. Any establishment found violating these regulations could face temporary or permanent closure and the revocation of their licenses.
Interior and Police Minister Faride Raful emphasized that the Ministry will work closely with the National Control of Alcoholic Beverage Sales Agency (COBA) and the National Police to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
The Ministry says the decision comes as the government seeks to boost the economy and tourism during the peak holiday season. While the extended hours are expected to benefit businesses, officials have also stressed the importance of responsible consumption and public safety.
Read more in Spanish:
Ministry of Interior and Police
Diario Libre
N Digital
11 December 2024