From Russia to Somalia: Nine countries where Valentine’s Day faces restrictions

Valentine’s Day, though widely celebrated worldwide, faces restrictions or limited recognition in several countries where cultural and religious values shape public attitudes toward the holiday.

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Valentine’s Day, observed every February 14, began as a Christian feast honouring Saint Valentine and has since evolved into a global celebration of romance, gifts and grand gestures. Historical records such as the Gelasian Sacramentary mention the Feast of Saint Valentine, and by the 14th and 15th centuries, the day had become closely associated with romantic love as ideas of courtly affection gained popularity. Although it is not a public holiday in most countries, February 14 holds strong cultural and religious meaning in many Christian communities, even as some nations have restricted or declined to formally recognise the occasion.

Russia

In Russia, Valentine’s Day is not formally observed in the same way as in Western countries. Instead, March 8 is marked as International Women’s Day, when men give flowers and chocolates while women are celebrated and appreciated. The focus is placed on honouring women and recognising gender equality rather than commemorating Saint Valentine, reflecting the country’s distinct cultural approach to seasonal celebrations.

Iran, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, India, Qatar and Somalia

In Iran, authorities have repeatedly criticised Valentine’s Day as a Western cultural import, warning businesses against selling related gifts, even as some restaurants and shops quietly mark the occasion. In Indonesia, while the country is officially secular, the province of Aceh bans Valentine’s celebrations under Islamic law, though major cities such as Jakarta continue to promote themed offers. Religious authorities in Malaysia have ruled the holiday conflicts with Islamic teachings, and enforcement actions have occurred in the past, while in Pakistan, courts have banned public celebrations, describing the day as contrary to Islamic values. In India, conservative groups have criticised the holiday as Western influence, with Chandra Prakash Kaushik stating, “We are not against love, but if a couple is in love then they must get married … if they are not certain, they should not belittle love by openly going around together.” Meanwhile, in Qatar and Somalia, Valentine’s Day is not widely observed, with cultural norms and strong religious beliefs limiting public celebrations and large-scale promotions.

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