Dundee pubs could stay open later for the World Cup as licenses are set to be extended

Dundee pubs could be allowed to stay open later during Scotland’s 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, under proposals set to be discussed by Dundee City Licensing Board next week.

Board members will meet remotely on Thursday 19 February to consider a proposed general extension to licensing hours during the tournament. With Scotland already qualified, the move would give venues across the city the option to apply for longer opening times on match days.

Scotland will kick off their World Cup campaign against Haiti on Saturday, 13 June. They will then face Morocco on Friday, 19 June before wrapping up their group stage against Brazil on Wednesday, 24 June. All three fixtures are expected to draw strong interest from fans across Dundee.

Time zone differences could make extended hours particularly important. The opening match against Haiti is scheduled to kick off at 2am Dundee time, meaning pubs would normally be closed. An approved extension would allow venues to open through the early hours so supporters can watch the game live together.

If agreed, individual pubs and bars would still need to apply and comply with any conditions set by the Licensing Board. Similar extensions have been granted in the past for major sporting events to manage demand and support local businesses.

For Dundee’s hospitality sector, Scotland’s involvement is likely to bring a boost in trade and atmosphere. From city centre venues to neighbourhood locals, the World Cup could turn into a series of late-night gatherings as fans back the national team on the global stage.