In much of the world, late December is filled with lights, gift lists, and plans built around December 25. But in a handful of places, Christmas is not a public celebration at all, and in some cases it is treated as a serious offence. The reasons vary, from strict religious rules to government control and security concerns. What many people think of as a global holiday can be just another day, or a day that is carefully avoided.
In North Korea, there is effectively no space for religious holidays like Christmas. The state’s ideology rejects organized religion because it is seen as competition to the authority of the regime and the personality cult built around the Kim dynasty. Any visible sign of Christmas, from gatherings to symbols, can lead to arrest or far worse. Instead of Western traditions, the public calendar is dominated by dates connected to leadership and the regime’s story, including the anniversary of Kim Jong Il’s birth on December 17.
Saudi Arabia has long treated Christmas as incompatible with Islamic doctrine, especially in public life. For years, visible celebrations such as trees, decorations, and holiday displays were tightly restricted, leaving any observance mostly behind closed doors or within diplomatic circles. More recently, there have been small signs of softening tied to modernization efforts and tourism. In some high end hotels and major shopping areas, discreet seasonal décor may appear, usually without overt religious imagery. Even so, the country’s major festive moments remain tied to Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha.
Brunei takes a strict approach to public religious expression under a firm interpretation of Sharia law. Non Muslims may celebrate Christmas privately, but anything that could look like promoting another religion to Muslims is treated as a problem. In practice, that can mean penalties for public trees, lights, nativity scenes, or even wearing a Santa hat in shared spaces. Businesses are also limited in how they advertise holiday themes, and public greetings have been discouraged in the past. The result is a Christmas season that stays largely behind closed doors.
Somalia goes further with a full ban on Christmas, driven by both religious identity and security fears. Authorities have argued that public observance could inflame tensions or attract reactions from extremist groups. Decorations, services, and even common greetings are restricted, keeping the focus firmly on Islamic holidays.
Tajikistan has not formally outlawed Christmas, but officials have repeatedly worked to discourage it in public. Schools and workplaces have been urged not to decorate or organize celebrations, and sales of trees and ornaments can face limits. The broader message is about reducing imported customs and strengthening national traditions, with celebrations like Nowruz promoted as a central cultural anchor.
Have you ever been surprised to learn how differently Christmas is treated around the world, and what do you think these restrictions say about culture and power today? Share your thoughts in the comments.
