4 Hotels in Islamabad Selling Alcohol Under Government License
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirms that four hotels in Islamabad selling alcohol have licenses with strict rules, high fees, and close supervision.
The National Assembly has approved the sale of alcohol at four renowned hotels in Islamabad. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi shared the news in the National Assembly. The move has raised interest and started a discussion about alcohol laws in Pakistan.
The government says its goal is not to encourage drinking but to control and monitor sales. By giving licenses only to certain hotels, the authorities can ensure alcohol is sold legally, avoid black market sales, and keep quality in check.
Alcohol licenses have been part of Pakistan’s law for many years, mainly for non-Muslim foreigners, diplomats, and some local communities. Allowing only trusted hotels to sell alcohol helps the government keep a close watch on the process.
While alcohol laws are still strict for the public, the rules for a few high-end hotels have become more relaxed. Officials say this change is to support tourism, follow global hospitality standards, and help the economy. This way, the country keeps its cultural values but also meets the needs of visitors.
The Interior Minister said that Marriott Hotel Islamabad, Serena Hotel Islamabad, Best Western Hotel Islamabad, and Mövenpick Hotel Islamabad have licenses. This means hotels in Islamabad selling alcohol will be under strict government checks.
The L2 liquor license comes with rules. Alcohol must be stored separately, and the hotel must inform the excise officer within seven days of a delivery. The first license costs Rs. 500,000, and renewing it each year costs Rs. 150,000. The excise officer can cancel a license anytime if the hotel breaks the rules.
