The legislation amends old rules that required such establishments to close between 11 p.m. or 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. The new provisions retain labour protections related to working hours, rest and safety.
Officials said the move is aimed at reducing red tape, lowering costs and promoting trust-based governance. The change is also expected to support economic activity, employment and nightlife, with the move coming just before Navratri.
The decision has received support from many who see round-the-clock operations as a potential boost to the economy, jobs and nightlife. At the same time, some concerns have been raised over sleep cycles and safety under the new arrangement.
With the Ease of Doing Business Bill, 2026, Gujarat has formally moved to relax the earlier operating-hour restrictions while retaining labour safeguards, opening the way for eligible shops and businesses to function around the clock.
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