Egyptian tourism minister Mounir Fakhry Abdel-Nour has confirmed the sale of alcohol will be banned during Islamic holidays.

The decision marks an expansion of the long standing ban on the sale of intoxicating liquor during the holy month of Ramadan.

According to reports from Egyptian state news agency MENA, Egyptians will no longer be able to purchase alcoholic beverages during four other major Islamic holidays.

Islamic precepts state the consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden at all times.

The sale of alcohol will now be banned during the Islamic New Year, the holiday commemorating the Israa and Me’rag, Prophet Mohamed’s birthday and the day of Arafa.

MENA reported Abdel-Nour’s decision was made out of respect for “the feelings of Muslims.”