Pattaya —
Entertainment venues in legal areas in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui will be officially allowed to stay open until 4 AM for the first night today, December 15th, in line with the government’s tourism stimulus policy.
Bars and clubs in Pattaya in current legal entertainment zones will be able to leverage the longer opening hours legally for the first night today. Several precaution plans have already been set to ensure a smooth transition and a positive impact on both businesses and the community.
The official legal area for 4AM closings will be central Pattaya, from Third Road to the beach, to Dolphin Roundabout to Bali Hai Pier. At this time, Jomtien, Naklua, and the Darkside are not included.
The Pattaya Entertainment and Tourism Association (PETA) expressed gratitude for the government’s economic stimulus measure. Mr. Damrongkiat Pinitkarn, PETA secretary, revealed that nightlife operators have been eager for extended hours to compete with international competitors, and they have already trained staff to adjust to the new schedule.
Addressing concerns about intoxicated customers drinking and driving, Mr. Damrongkiat highlighted that foreign tourists, Pattaya’s primary clientele, mainly rely on public transportation or walk. Coupled with sobering-up areas and breathalyzing regulations, this will minimize risks of alcohol-related accidents, Mr. Damrongkiat said.
For those arriving in their own vehicles, pre-entry assessments and staff-assisted departure procedures will be implemented. Alcohol level checks and driver services are also in place to ensure compliance with legal limits and customer safety.
PETA also proposes expanding the legal entertainment zones in Pattaya. Mr. Damrongkiat emphasized that the outdated Entertainment Places Act, which has been in place for 21 years, no longer reflects the city’s growth and development. He proposed the expansion and recommended it should prioritize community impact, including noise control and safety of residents. Currently, popular areas like Naklua, Jomtien, and parts of the Darkside are out of the legal entertainment zones and not officially eligible for later openings.
Meanwhile, services within hotel premises will also be permitted to operate until 4 AM, aligning with national hotel regulations. The Thai government has also permitted night entertainment venues across the country to stay open until 6 AM on December 31 to further promote tourism during the New Year celebration.
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