Restaurants, bars, nightclubs and other businesses across Rwanda will be allowed to operate for longer hours during the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a temporary directive issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
Under the new measures, shops and various business establishments, including restaurants, bars and nightclubs, will be permitted to operate until 3 a.m. from Monday through Thursday and until 4 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
The extended operating hours will take effect from June 12 to July 20, 2026, covering the period of the FIFA World Cup tournament.
In a statement issued on June 12, RDB said the move is intended to facilitate business, entertainment and leisure activities for both Rwandans and visitors during the global football tournament.
“Shops and various business establishments, including restaurants, bars and nightclubs, will be permitted to operate until 3:00 a.m. from Monday to Thursday,” the statement said. “These businesses will be allowed to operate until 4:00 a.m. from Friday to Sunday, during weekends and on public holidays.”
RDB said all existing regulations will remain in force, including rules governing noise pollution and restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol by individuals under the age of 18.
The agency also urged members of the public to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.
“It is prohibited to serve alcohol to a person who is visibly intoxicated,” the statement added.
Before the temporary adjustment, bars, nightclubs and other alcohol-selling establishments were required to close at 1 a.m. from Monday through Friday and at 2 a.m. on weekends.
The temporary extension is expected to allow football fans to follow late-night World Cup matches while boosting activity in Rwanda’s hospitality and entertainment sectors.
