Vietnam's capital wants to set up zones for nightclubs, karaoke bars to open 24 hours a day

Hanoi is considering regulated entertainment zones operating beyond midnight or around the clock as it seeks to turn the night-time economy into a major growth engine, contributing about 5% of the capital’s GRDP by 2030. The Hanoi People's Committee has issued a plan to implement the municipal People's Council resolution on the nigh-time economy development.Under the plan, designated zones could host licensed karaoke venues, nightclubs, bars, pubs, clubs and electronic gaming facilities, subject to strict security, public order and urban management requirements.The capital will develop specialized night-time hubs, with Hoan Kiem, Cua Nam, Ba Dinh, Son Tay and Soc Son focusing on culture and heritage, while Tay Ho, the West of West Lake, My Dinh and Dong Anh will target modern entertainment. Suburban destinations including Bat Trang, Ba Vi and Huong Son will offer cultural and leisure experiences.Hanoi also plans signature night-time routes showcasing its heritage, cuisine and urban culture, including the Thang Long Four Sacred Temples experience and popular food streets such as Tong Duy Tan and Ta Hien.Transport and infrastructure will be upgraded to support the push. Metro operating hours could be extended on weekends and public holidays, while subsidized buses will connect major night-time entertainment areas. Bars along Ta Hien Street, Hanoi stay open through the night, adding shifts and installing large TV screens to show the World Cup 2026 final on July 20, 2026. Tables and chairs fill a stretch of about 300 m as residents and tourists arrive to watch the match. Photo by VnExpress Creative night hubs are planned for the Dong Xuan–Bac Qua area, the cultural industries center of Cua Nam Ward and the Gia Lam Train Factory creative complex. The city is also exploring e-sports venues and night sports complexes featuring billiards, indoor golf, pickleball, tennis and running.Other plans include an annual international night marathon, the technology-powered "Memories of Thang Long" cultural series and a Hanoi night music and arts festival.Artistic lighting around West Lake, Hoan Kiem Lake and the Red River will be expanded while a digital night-economy map will help users find venues, events and transport services.Hanoi said its existing pedestrian streets, food hubs, night tours and cultural performances have yet to reach their full potential, with the city now aiming to build a more connected and competitive night-time ecosystem.