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Iran -

Iran, officially the Islamic Republic of Iran and also known as Persia, is a country in West Asia with a multi-ethnic population of nearly 92 million. Under Iranian law, which is governed by Islamic principles, the sale and consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited.

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Iran -

These regulations are deeply influenced by Islamic teachings, which emphasize spiritual purity and virtuous living. Islam discourages the consumption of intoxicating substances, including alcohol, as they are seen as contradictory to the pursuit of spiritual purity and self-control.

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Iran -

Alcohol, being a substance that alters the mind, is seen as a barrier to achieving spiritual purity and self-control. The nation's penal code clearly outlines severe consequences for possessing, producing, or selling alcoholic beverages.

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Bangladesh -

Bangladesh is a South Asian country and the eighth-most populous in the world, with its population projected to reach 186 million by 2030. Alcohol consumption in Bangladesh is among the lowest globally, with over 90% of the population living alcohol-free, according to the World Health Organization. 

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Bangladesh -

As a predominantly Muslim country, alcohol is neither socially accepted nor openly permitted. Under Bangladeshi law, any beverage containing more than 0.5% alcohol is classified as alcoholic. 

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Bangladesh -

The government introduced the Alcohol Control Rules 2022, overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs, to regulate the sale, marketing, production, and consumption of alcohol. Drinking alcohol in Bangladesh requires a legal permit, which is typically granted to non-Muslims.

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Afghanistan -

Afghanistan is a landlocked country located at the crossroads of Central Asia and South Asia. Afghanistan is one of the countries where alcohol consumption is illegal for the majority of its citizens due to Islamic law. 

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Afghanistan -

Under Sharia law, violations can lead to punishment, including fines, imprisonment, or corporal punishment such as whipping. Alcohol laws in Afghanistan strictly prohibit production, sale, and consumption for Muslims, while exceptions may sometimes exist for non-Muslims under specific conditions.

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Afghanistan -

The consumption of alcohol is, officially, completely illegal in Afghanistan. The penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking alcohol or illegal drugs are severe.

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Yemen -

Yemen is a Muslim-majority country in West Asia located on the southern Arabian Peninsula. It shares borders with Saudi Arabia to the north, Oman to the northeast, the Red Sea to the west, and the Indian Ocean to the south. 

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Yemen -

As of December 15, 2024, Yemen's population is estimated at just over 41 million according to Worldometer's analysis of the latest United Nations data. Islam is the dominant religion in Yemen, with almost the entire population adhering to the faith. The country is governed by Islamic principles, and Sharia law is the primary source of legislation. 

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Yemen -

Alcohol is completely banned in Yemen, as it is considered contrary to Islamic teachings. Even a straightforward purchase of vodka can carry the shadowy undertones of illicit dealings. While alcohol remains taboo, addressing alcoholism is even more challenging, as those affected often face intense societal judgment and stigma.

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Saudi Arabia -

With a population of over 34 million, Saudi Arabia is the fourth most populous country in the Arab world and the birthplace of Islam. It is home to Islam's two holiest sites, Mecca and Medina.

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Saudi Arabia -

Alcohol was banned in 1952 by King Ibn Saud, and under current Saudi law, penalties for possession or consumption can include fines, imprisonment, public flogging, or deportation for expatriates. Unlike many other Muslim countries, alcohol sales remain strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia, even in luxury hotels.

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Saudi Arabia -

Despite this, Saudi Arabia is making significant efforts to attract international visitors and modernize its global image through its "Vision 2030" project. As part of these reforms, the kingdom has opened its first government-run off-license in Riyadh's diplomatic quarter, marking the country's first commercial outlet for alcohol sales.

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Somalia -

Somalia, is the easternmost country in continental Africa, with a population of 19.3 million. 

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Somalia -

Alcohol in Somalia is prohibited by the country's Muslim culture, but historically, it was allowed and continues to exist illicitly. The use and distribution of alcohol are illegal, as Somalia's laws align with Sharia (Islamic law), which forbids alcohol.

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Somalia -

Despite this prohibition, there is a growing demand, particularly among young people in various parts of the country.

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Kuwait -

Kuwait is a country in West Asia located on the northern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, at the tip of the Persian Gulf. It shares borders with Iraq to the north and Saudi Arabia to the south.

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Kuwait -

As of 2024, Kuwait has a population of 4.82 million, with 1.53 million Kuwaiti citizens and the remaining 3.29 million consisting of foreign nationals from over 100 countries. Alcohol is completely banned in Kuwait and cannot be purchased or consumed in public, meaning even hotels and restaurants do not serve alcohol.

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Kuwait -

Drinking privately is not explicitly illegal so those who choose to partake discreetly and remain under the radar should not face punishment or consequences. However, it is important to note that alcohol consumption is not accepted, and under no circumstances should anyone be intoxicated in public places in Kuwait.

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Pakistan -

Pakistan is a country in South Asia and the fifth-most populous in the world, with over 253 million people. It has the second-largest Muslim population globally, with Muslims making up about 97% of the population. 

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Pakistan -

Alcohol consumption is completely prohibited for Muslims, while non-Muslims are allowed to purchase alcohol within a limited quota, provided they have the appropriate permit. These permits are typically issued to religious minorities, such as Christians, who make up about 3% of the population.

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Pakistan -

The law stipulates severe punishment for Muslim citizens caught drinking, including 80 lashes. However, a significant loophole exists in the policy with the issuance of alcohol permits to non-Muslims.

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Mauritania -

Mauritania is a sovereign country in Northwest Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and Western Sahara to the northwest. With a population of just over five million, it is one of the poorest countries in the world. More than half of the population lives in poverty.

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Mauritania -

Mauritania enforces strict dry laws, where alcohol consumption and even attempting to offer it to citizens is punishable by law. In addition, it is illegal for both Muslims and non-Muslims to import or consume alcohol or pork products.

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Mauritania -

The authorities rigorously scan all baggage at Nouakchott International Airport and may search vehicles at land borders. Alcohol or pork products found in possession are confiscated, and individuals may face arrest or fines.

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Libya -

Libya is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa with a population of approximately 7.4 million. As a conservative Muslim country, alcohol is illegal for both Libyans and visitors alike. 

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Libya -

Libya's ban on alcohol dates back to 1969, when Colonel Muammar Gaddafi assumed power and aligned the nation's policies with Islamic principles. The Prohibition Law of 1974 officially outlawed the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol, reflecting Libya's commitment to Islamic law.

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Libya -

Since then, the country has maintained a strict stance on alcohol, and any violation of this law can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. While the sale of alcohol is prohibited, there have been reports of black-market activity and underground bars. These activities are illegal and carry risks of legal consequences. 

Sources: (Best Diplomats) (World Population Review) (Worldometer)

See also: The real impact of alcohol on your body

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