10 countries where drinking and selling acohol can land you in jail

When traveling abroad, it's essential to familiarise yourself with local laws and customs.

In some countries, consuming or selling alcohol can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Think sipping a glass of wine is harmless everywhere? Think again.

While many countries embrace alcohol as part of their cultural or social fabric, others enforce strict laws, often shaped by public or religious values, that criminalize drinking entirely or impose harsh restrictions.

In some places, having a drink could lead to hefty fines, deportation, or jail time.

Whether you’re an expatriate, a curious reader, or a seasoned traveler, here are ten countries with strict liquor laws that might surprise you:

1. Saudi Arabia

Status: Total ban (with a limited exception for diplomats)

Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Possession, importation, or even being caught under the influence can lead to jail time, deportation for foreigners, and public flogging.

Since 1952, the sale and consumption of alcohol have been completely banned in Saudi Arabia, enforcing some of the world’s harshest alcohol laws.

However, in 2024, the country announced its first official alcohol store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats.

2. Iran

Status: Banned for Muslims

Alcohol has been illegal in Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, and public intoxication is a serious offense.

Certain religious minorities are allowed limited access, but Muslims caught consuming alcohol can face imprisonment, corporal punishment, or fines.

3. Afghanistan

Status: Prohibited

Alcohol is banned for both locals and most foreigners.

Those caught drinking may face fines, imprisonment, or even whipping.

Even private consumption or possession is punishable under the country’s strict interpretation of Islamic law.

4. Libya

Status: Banned

Alcohol has been banned in Libya since 1969, with stricter penalties introduced under the 1974 Prohibition Law.

Today, smuggling, producing, or possessing alcohol can lead to lengthy prison sentences.

5. Bangladesh

Status: Restricted

Alcohol is restricted to licensed hotels and restaurants.

Muslims caught drinking can face imprisonment or substantial fines, while non-Muslims may legally consume alcohol under license.

Public intoxication or drinking in unauthorised areas is penalised.

6. Kuwait

Status: Banned

Alcohol is completely banned.

Even small quantities can lead to arrest, fines, or deportation for foreigners.

Enforcement is strict, and smuggling is considered a serious offense.

7. United Arab Emirates (Varies by Emirate)

Status: Restricted

While Dubai and Abu Dhabi allow alcohol consumption for non-Muslims under strict regulations, emirates like Sharjah enforce zero-tolerance policies.

Public drinking or intoxication, even in more liberal areas, can result in penalties including imprisonment, fines, or deportation.

8. Maldives

Status: Banned for locals

Alcohol is permitted only within tourist resorts.

Locals are prohibited from consuming or possessing alcohol.

Offenders face criminal charges such as fines, imprisonment, or corporal punishment.

Tourists should avoid carrying alcohol into public or local areas.

9. Pakistan

Status: Banned for Muslims

Alcohol is heavily restricted.

Non-Muslims may consume alcohol with a license, though access is limited.

For Muslims, consumption is illegal and punishable by imprisonment, fines, or even lashings under certain laws.

10. Brunei

Status: Banned under Sharia law

Brunei’s strict Sharia-based legal system prohibits alcohol for Muslims.

Offenders may face fines, imprisonment, or caning.

Non-Muslims can bring in small amounts for personal use, but public consumption is illegal.

Conclusion

Before visiting any of these countries, it's crucial to understand their unique laws and customs.

A seemingly innocent glass of wine could become a legal nightmare if you're not careful.

Always do your research, and when in doubt, consult a local or check your embassy's travel advisory.

In these countries, ignorance of the law isn’t just risky, it could be criminal.

NAD/MA