New regulations effective 27 June 2025 allow round‑the‑clock alcohol sales in hotels, airports and entertainment venues, ban consumption on railways
New regulations that took effect on 27 June 2025 have revised alcohol sale and consumption rules in Thailand under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act B.E. 2551 (2008).
Across Thailand, alcohol sales remain restricted to two daily windows: between 11:00 and 14:00, and 17:00 to midnight.
The updated directive from the Prime Minister’s Office introduces exemptions permitting unrestricted hours at:
- Hotels licensed under the Hotel Act
- Passenger areas within international airport terminals
- Licensed entertainment venues operating under service establishment laws
This expansion builds on the 2015 policy, which previously allowed only airport and entertainment venue exemptions .
A separate government order also enforces a blanket ban on alcohol sales, possession and consumption on all trains and within railway stations.
The sole exception applies to specially designated events at Bangkok’s main station, Hua Lamphong, held in an air-conditioned hall with prior authorisation from the Ministry of Public Health and adherence to strict safety, screening and age‑restriction protocols .
Travellers are reminded that consumption or purchase of alcohol outside permitted venues or time frames remains illegal, and both individuals and businesses may face penalties, including fines or licence suspension .
Driving under the influence is subject to stringent enforcement, with offences potentially resulting in arrest, fines or removal from Thailand, and the use of taxis, ride‑shares or public transport is advised .
These amendments align Thailand’s alcohol laws with modern tourism demands while maintaining public safety and regulatory consistency.
Across Thailand, alcohol sales remain restricted to two daily windows: between 11:00 and 14:00, and 17:00 to midnight.
The updated directive from the Prime Minister’s Office introduces exemptions permitting unrestricted hours at:
- Hotels licensed under the Hotel Act
- Passenger areas within international airport terminals
- Licensed entertainment venues operating under service establishment laws
This expansion builds on the 2015 policy, which previously allowed only airport and entertainment venue exemptions .
A separate government order also enforces a blanket ban on alcohol sales, possession and consumption on all trains and within railway stations.
The sole exception applies to specially designated events at Bangkok’s main station, Hua Lamphong, held in an air-conditioned hall with prior authorisation from the Ministry of Public Health and adherence to strict safety, screening and age‑restriction protocols .
Travellers are reminded that consumption or purchase of alcohol outside permitted venues or time frames remains illegal, and both individuals and businesses may face penalties, including fines or licence suspension .
Driving under the influence is subject to stringent enforcement, with offences potentially resulting in arrest, fines or removal from Thailand, and the use of taxis, ride‑shares or public transport is advised .
These amendments align Thailand’s alcohol laws with modern tourism demands while maintaining public safety and regulatory consistency.