JD - Syrian authorities in Damascus have imposed new restrictions on the sale of alcohol within the capital city, limiting sales to specific districts.
The Damascus Governorate announced in a statement that the serving of alcoholic beverages in restaurants and nightclubs is now prohibited. The decision follows a number of complaints and is based on requests from the local community, aiming to address activities deemed disruptive to public order.
According to the new regulations, the sale of sealed alcoholic beverages is exclusively permitted in the neighborhoods of Bab Touma, Al-Qassaa, and Bab Sharqi. This is limited to businesses specifically licensed for commercial activities.
Furthermore, alcohol retail outlets must now be located at least 75 meters away from mosques, churches, schools, and cemeteries. They must also maintain a minimum distance of 20 meters from police stations and government offices.
Damascus authorities have granted existing alcohol vendors a three-month grace period to comply with the new regulations.
