Rwanda Extends Bar and Business Hours for Cycling World Championship
Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has announced that during the upcoming UCI Road World Championships 2025, bars, nightclubs, shops, and restaurants will be allowed to stay open until 4:00 AM.
The new directive aims to create a vibrant environment for both fans and visitors as Rwanda hosts this historic cycling event.
UCI Road World Championships in Kigali
The UCI Road World Championships will take place in Kigali from September 21 to 28, 2025. This will mark the first time in history that the championship, which has been organized for more than a century, will be hosted in Africa.
Usually, the event takes place in Europe, with only 11 editions ever held outside the continent. Kigali will now join the global list of major cycling destinations.
For more about the championship, visit the official UCI website.
Previous Rules and New Changes
Before this announcement, Rwanda’s nightlife rules required:
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Bars and nightclubs to close by 1:00 AM from Monday to Friday
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Closing at 2:00 AM on weekends
Now, to support the event and manage traffic disruptions, the new rule allows nightlife venues to extend business until 4:00 AM throughout the championship.
Safety and Responsible Drinking
RDB reminded business owners and customers that normal laws remain in place. This includes:
- No selling alcohol to people under 18 years old
- Reducing unnecessary noise in residential areas
- Avoiding serving alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals
- RDB also encouraged fans to drink responsibly and avoid drunk driving.
“Alcohol must not be served to anyone who is clearly drunk,” RDB stated.
The institution confirmed that it will work with police and other agencies to monitor compliance. Violators will face legal consequences.
Schools Temporarily Closed During the Event
Alongside RDB’s directive, the Ministry of Education has announced that schools — from nursery to universities — will pause activities during the event. The decision ensures smooth traffic flow and maximum safety for participants and visitors.
Why This Matters for Rwanda
This move highlights Rwanda’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for international sports and promoting its tourism sector. By extending operating hours, the country not only supports fans but also boosts business for local bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
