Rwanda Extends Nightlife Hours Ahead of UCI World Cycling Championships

GATEOFWISE.COM

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has issued temporary hospitality guidelines for the UCI Road World Championships, granting extended operating hours to businesses in Kigali and beyond. Under the new measures, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers will be allowed to operate until 4:00 a.m. throughout the championship week.

Previously, bars and nightclubs were required to close at 1:00 a.m. on weekdays and 2:00 a.m. on weekends, according to national regulations. The relaxation of these rules is intended to accommodate the influx of visitors and manage the anticipated surge in economic and social activities during the event.

The UCI Road World Championships, cycling’s most prestigious annual competition, will be held in Kigali from September 21 to 28, 2025. This historic edition marks the first time in the 103-year history of the event that it will take place on African soil. Rwanda is expecting thousands of athletes, officials, and international fans to attend, alongside global media coverage that will spotlight the country’s growing reputation as a sporting destination.

“Rwanda is proud to welcome athletes, fans, and visitors from around the world for the 2025 UCI Road World Championships,” RDB said in its statement, noting that the decision to extend operating hours will also help businesses maximize revenue during the high-profile week.

At the same time, the board stressed that existing public safety regulations remain fully in force. Noise control restrictions, the ban on serving alcohol to individuals under 18, and penalties for serving visibly intoxicated customers will continue. Authorities also reminded the public to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.

“RDB, in collaboration with other government institutions, will ensure the proper implementation of these guidelines,” the statement warned. “Entities that fail to comply will be held accountable.”

The extension of nightlife hours is seen not only as a boost to the hospitality and entertainment sector, but also as part of Rwanda’s wider strategy to showcase its capacity to host major global events. Industry stakeholders predict that the championships could inject millions of dollars into the local economy, while reinforcing Kigali’s brand as a safe, vibrant, and welcoming city for international tourism.