List of Countries that Do Not Celebrate Halloween

Jakarta – Halloween is among the oldest traditions in the world as it touches on an essential element of the human condition: the relationship between the living and the dead. 

This tradition usually celebrated on the night of October 31st. It's a time when people of all ages embrace their playful, spooky, and creative sides.

The holiday is marked by costumes ranging from cute to creepy, as children and adults alike transform into witches, ghosts, superheroes, and more. 

The streets come alive with the laughter of trick-or-treaters, who go door to door collecting candy, and the eerie glow of jack-o'-lanterns illuminates porches. 

Halloween is a holiday that allows people to explore their imagination, confront their fears, and revel in the magic of the season.

But however, not all countries celebrate Halloween, and some even restrict of prohibit its celebration due to cultural, religious, or other reasons. 

Here are five countries that generally don't allow or widely celebrate Halloween. 

Saudi Arabia, a Muslim-majority country, severely restricts Halloween celebrations. The government of Saudi Arabia prohibits any form of celebration that is considered contrary to Islamic values. 

Halloween, with its elements related to spirits, ghosts, and honoring spirits, is considered a shirk practice that violates the principle of monotheism in Islam. Saudis are prohibited from celebrating Halloween, and there are legal sanctions for violators.

In China, Halloween celebrations are increasingly popular among young people, especially in big cities. However, the Chinese government has taken steps to restrict this celebration. 

They consider Halloween to be a foreign cultural influence that is incompatible with traditional Chinese values. Some schools and universities have even banned students from celebrating Halloween, and some stores that sell Halloween decorations have also been banned from selling their products.

Although Halloween celebrations have become more common in Russia, most Russian Orthodox religious leaders still oppose it. They consider Halloween a pagan celebration that goes against Christian values. 

Some Russian Orthodox churches hold special prayers against the influence of Halloween, and some religious groups even demonstrate against the celebration. Although there is no official government ban, there are cultural and religious pressures that discourage some people in Russia from celebrating Halloween.

Iran is an Islamic country that strictly prohibits the celebration of Halloween. Like Saudi Arabia, the Iranian government considers Halloween a shirk practice that violates Islamic teachings. 

Iranians are prohibited from celebrating Halloween, and violations can lead to legal action. In fact, the Iranian government has made several arrests of individuals involved in Halloween celebrations.

Singapore is an ethnically and culturally diverse country, with the majority of its population being ethnic Chinese. While Halloween is not officially banned in Singapore, the government has issued a warning against excessive Halloween celebrations. 

They are concerned that Halloween celebrations involving the wearing of spooky costumes and games related to spirits may disturb public order and public safety. Hence, they urge the public to celebrate Halloween wisely.