Damascus governorate issues clarification on alcohol sales regulations

• Damascus governorate clarifies new alcohol sales regulation aims to organize businesses and maintain public order without restricting personal freedoms.

The Damascus Governorate issued a clarification on Saturday regarding Decision No. 311 M.T., which regulates the sale of alcoholic beverages.

The governorate emphasized that the decision is purely administrative, aimed at maintaining public security, social order, public morals, and proper licensing of businesses, without infringing on citizens’ personal freedoms.

The governorate noted that the decision is not new but rather a unification and organization of previous decrees and laws, including Legislative Decree No. 180 of 1952 and Decisions 34/1998, 46/2010, 38/2013, and 41/2018, all of which regulate the operation of alcohol-selling establishments.

The regulation of distances between these establishments and places of worship or schools has been in effect for decades. Decree 180 of 1952 specified that alcohol sales should be limited to neighborhoods with a majority non-Muslim population, respecting their privacy, and requires neighbor approval before granting business licenses.

The decision was prompted by multiple complaints from residents regarding disturbances caused by certain clubs, bars, and nightclubs, as well as the spread of unlicensed establishments and the sale of alcohol to minors. The governorate stressed that the new decision aims to organize the profession, enforce existing laws, and limit violations.

The governorate clarified that the regulation aligns with practices in other countries, which vary according to customs and societal norms: some ban alcohol entirely, some allow it in specific locations, and others regulate it under strict laws and controls.

Tourism-related licensed establishments, such as hotels approved by the Ministry of Tourism, are not affected by the decision. The governorate also stated that proposals regarding restaurants with special tourist significance will be studied in coordination with the Ministry of Tourism.

Apologizing for any misunderstanding, the governorate addressed residents of Bab Touma, Al-Qassa’a, and Bab Sharqi, noting that these neighborhoods are integral to Damascus’ identity and culture. It assured citizens that the areas mentioned in the decision will be reviewed to avoid harming any community and that the sale of alcoholic beverages will be organized over the next three months in accordance with previous laws, with special consideration for tourist-oriented restaurants.

The governorate concluded by urging citizens not to follow rumors, to rely on official sources for information, and reminded the public that its offices remain open to receive feedback through the Directorate of Local Councils and Public Relations.