If you’ve seen recent headlines, you might think Bali has suddenly turned against foreigners. That’s simply not true.
The recent controversy surrounding a Bali run club has generated millions of views online, but it has also created a misleading impression that locals no longer want tourists on the island.
Having lived in Bali for years, that’s not the reality I’ve experienced.
Bali remains one of the friendliest places I’ve ever lived. What’s changed isn’t the attitude toward foreigners. It’s the attitude toward disrespectful behaviour.
Is Bali Still Welcoming to Foreigners?
If you’ve seen recent headlines, it’s easy to come away thinking Bali has suddenly turned against foreigners.
Stories claiming “Bali can’t stand foreigners anymore” or “tourists are no longer welcome” have spread quickly across social media and news websites.
Much of this comes from a handful of high profile incidents that have attracted international attention, including the recent viral Bali Run Club controversy.
While these stories generate plenty of clicks, they don’t tell the full story of what life in Bali is actually like.
Bali welcomes millions of tourists every year, and the vast majority leave with nothing but positive experiences.
Most locals continue to be incredibly warm, patient and welcoming toward visitors, just as they always have been.
What has changed is that some Balinese people are becoming increasingly frustrated with a small number of foreigners who disrespect local customs, ignore visa rules, behave recklessly or treat the island as though normal rules don’t apply.
TL;DR
- Bali is still one of the most welcoming destinations in the world for foreigners.
- Recent viral headlines have exaggerated a handful of incidents and don’t reflect everyday life on the island.
- Most Balinese people are friendly, respectful and appreciative of tourists.
- Frustration is generally directed at poor behaviour, not foreigners themselves.
- Respecting local customs, laws and culture goes a long way, and most visitors never experience any issues.
💡 Key Takeaway: Bali isn’t becoming anti-foreigner. It’s becoming less tolerant of people who disrespect the island, its culture and its laws. The issue isn’t ordinary tourists enjoying their holiday, it’s the small number of visitors whose behaviour gives everyone else a bad name.
Why People Think Bali isn’t Welcoming Anymore
Most of the headlines about Bali you’ve probably seen aren’t completely made up, but they often leave out the context.
Here’s what’s really driving the whole “Bali doesn’t want foreigners anymore” narrative:
Social media rewards outrage
- Videos showing conflict spread much faster than videos of people quietly enjoying their holiday.
- One incident can be shared millions of times, making it feel like it’s happening everywhere.
- Most tourists have a completely normal, positive experience in Bali, but those stories rarely go viral.
Law enforcement is becoming stricter
- Indonesian authorities have stepped up enforcement against foreigners breaking visa rules or operating illegal businesses.
- Some international headlines frame this as Bali “cracking down on foreigners.”
- In reality, the focus is on people breaking the law, not ordinary tourists visiting the island.
Clickbait headlines don’t tell the full story
- Headlines are designed to grab attention, not explain the bigger picture.
- Saying “Bali doesn’t want foreigners anymore” generates far more clicks than “Authorities enforce existing regulations.”
- Once these stories are shared across social media, the original context is often lost.
Some areas are feeling the pressure of tourism
- Places like Canggu, Seminyak and parts of Ubud have changed rapidly over the past few years.
- More traffic, rising living costs and overcrowding have understandably caused frustration for some locals.
- Those concerns are mostly about overdevelopment and irresponsible behaviour, not tourists as a whole.
- Outside of these busy hotspots, Bali remains just as friendly and welcoming as ever.
Recent headlines aren’t proof that Bali isn’t welcoming to foreigners. They’re a reflection of stricter law enforcement, viral social media and growing frustration with a small number of people whose behaviour doesn’t respect the island or its culture.
The Truth Behind Recent Headlines
Much of the attention comes from the recent Bali Run Club controversy, which quickly made international news like CNN and Al Jazeera and sparked heated debate on social media.
Combined with videos of badly behaved tourists and stories about immigration crackdowns, it has created the impression that Bali no longer welcomes foreigners.
That’s a misleading conclusion.
The Bali Run Club incident was one event involving a specific business and specific allegations. It wasn’t a reflection of how Balinese people feel about foreigners in general.
Likewise, immigration enforcement is aimed at people breaking the law, not ordinary tourists enjoying their holiday.
| What the Headlines Say | What’s Actually Happening |
|---|---|
| “Bali doesn’t want foreigners anymore.” | Bali continues to welcome millions of respectful tourists every year. The frustration is aimed at a small minority whose behaviour causes problems. |
| “Locals are turning against tourists.” | Most Balinese people remain warm and welcoming. Concerns are generally about illegal businesses, disrespectful behaviour and people ignoring local customs. |
| “Foreigners are being targeted by immigration.” | Immigration is cracking down on visa overstays, illegal work and other breaches of Indonesian law, not ordinary holidaymakers. |
| “Bali is becoming hostile to visitors.” | The vast majority of tourists visit Bali without any issues. Treat people and the local culture with respect, and you’ll almost certainly receive the same in return. |
Unfortunately, social media algorithms and clickbait headlines don’t reward nuance.
A headline claiming “Bali Doesn’t Want Foreigners Anymore” spreads much faster than one explaining the complexities behind a single incident.
Are Bali Locals Friendly to Tourists?
In my experience, absolutely. I’ve lived in Bali for years, and one of the biggest reasons I’ve stayed is the people.
My drivers are all Balinese, many of my closest friends are Balinese and Indonesian, and I make a conscious effort to support local, family owned businesses whenever I can.
In my experience, Balinese people are warm, patient and genuinely welcoming. Whether you’re checking into a hotel, eating at a warung, or browsing a small shop, you’ll usually be greeted with a smile.
Of course, no destination is perfect. Like anywhere in the world, you’ll come across people having a bad day or the occasional negative interaction. But those experiences are the exception, not the rule.
The Balinese culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality, respect and community. Tourism has also been part of everyday life for decades, so most locals are used to welcoming visitors from all over the world.
That said, being friendly doesn’t mean accepting every type of behaviour.
Many locals have become more vocal about issues like illegal businesses, reckless scooter riding, disrespect at temples and foreigners ignoring local customs.
That’s not because they dislike tourists, it’s because they care about protecting their beautiful island and way of life.
If you’re polite, respectful and make even a small effort to appreciate the local culture, there’s a very good chance you’ll find Bali to be one of the friendliest places you’ve ever visited.
Why Locals are Becoming Frustrated
It’s important to understand that most of the frustration isn’t directed at foreigners themselves. It’s directed at a small minority of people whose behaviour has become more visible in recent years.
As Bali has grown in popularity, so has the number of incidents involving visitors ignoring local laws, customs and basic respect for the communities they live in or visit.
Those stories naturally receive far more attention than the millions of tourists who enjoy Bali responsibly.
Some of the biggest concerns are:
- Illegal businesses: Foreigners operating businesses or working without the correct permits, often taking opportunities away from locals.
- Visa abuse: Working on tourist visas, overstaying or ignoring Indonesian immigration laws.
- Disrespecting local culture: Entering temples inappropriately dressed, climbing sacred monuments or disrupting religious ceremonies for photos.
- Dangerous scooter riding: Driving without a licence, riding without helmets or ignoring local road rules, putting themselves and others at risk.
- Poor behaviour in public: Excessive drunkenness, arguments, vandalism or treating Bali like it has different rules from home.
- Exclusive communities: Businesses or events that appear to exclude locals or create the perception that Balinese people are unwelcome in their own community.
The recent Bali Run Club controversy is one example. While the details of that specific case are unique, it tapped into a broader conversation about whether some foreign-run businesses are becoming disconnected from the local community they operate in.
For most locals, this isn’t about where someone comes from. It’s about how they behave once they’re here.
💡 Key Takeaway: Respect goes a long way in Bali. The overwhelming majority of tourists never have any issues because they treat the island, its culture and its people with the same respect they’d expect at home.
Tourists vs Digital Nomads: What’s the Difference?
One thing that’s often missing from this conversation is that “foreigners” isn’t just one group.
Someone visiting Bali for a 10-day holiday has a very different lifestyle, visa and impact than someone living here full-time as a digital nomad.
Understanding that difference helps explain why you’ve been seeing more headlines about visa enforcement in recent years.
Traditional Tourists
These are people visiting Bali for a holiday. They come to relax, explore the island, enjoy the food and culture, and then head home.
- Typical stay: A few days to a couple of months.
- Visa: Visa on Arrival (e-VoA / B1) or a Tourist Visa, depending on nationality and length of stay.
- What they can do: Visit attractions, stay in hotels or villas, eat at restaurants, book tours, shop and enjoy everything Bali has to offer.
- What they can’t do: Work, earn income from Indonesia or operate a business.
- Their impact: Tourism is one of Bali’s biggest industries, and respectful tourists directly support local drivers, guides, restaurants, hotels, shops and thousands of Balinese families.
Digital Nomads
Digital nomads live in Bali for longer periods while working remotely for overseas employers or running businesses based outside Indonesia.
- Typical stay: Several months to multiple years.
- Visa: Usually a Remote Worker Visa, KITAS or another long-term visa depending on their situation.
- What they can do: Live in Bali while earning income from overseas, provided they comply with Indonesian immigration rules.
- What they can’t do: Work for Indonesian companies, take local jobs or run businesses without the appropriate permits.
- Their impact: Because they’re here much longer than tourists, they’re also more visible. When a small number break visa rules or ignore local laws, those cases tend to receive far more attention.
As you can see, Digital nomads in Bali are a little different from the standard “tourist.” Most stay for months at a time, work remotely and become part of their own communities.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that and many contribute to the island by supporting local businesses and creating jobs.
However, since they’re here for much longer than the average tourist, their impact is more noticeable.
When a small number of foreigners ignore visa laws, run illegal business, or refuse to integrate with the local community, that can create tension that wouldn’t normally exist with short-term tourists.
How to Be a Respectful Visitor to Bali
The good news is that being a respectful visitor in Bali isn’t difficult. Most tourists naturally do the right thing and never experience any issues during their trip.
Here are a few simple ways to show respect while you’re visiting Bali 2026:
- Learn about Balinese culture: Understanding a few local customs and traditions makes your experience more meaningful and shows respect for the island.
- Respect Bali’s laws: Follow visa conditions, obey local regulations and remember that Indonesian laws may be different from those in your home country.
- Ride safely: Wear a helmet, carry the correct licence and obey local road rules if you’re renting a scooter.
- Follow temple etiquette: Dress appropriately, wear a sarong when required and follow the rules when visiting Bali’s temples.
- Be mindful during ceremonies: Religious processions and ceremonies are part of everyday life in Bali. Be patient and avoid interrupting them.
- Support local businesses: Eat at local warungs, hire local drivers and shop at locally owned businesses where you can.
- Keep Bali clean: Dispose of your rubbish properly and help protect the island’s beaches and natural areas.
- Be polite: A smile, patience and basic courtesy go a long way. Learning a few simple Indonesian phrases is always appreciated.
Bali isn’t asking visitors to be perfect. It simply asks that you treat the island with the same respect you’d hope to receive as a guest in someone else’s home.
FAQs About Bali & Foreigners
Are Tourists Welcome in Bali?
Yes. Bali remains one of the world’s most welcoming destinations for tourists. Despite recent headlines, the vast majority of visitors enjoy their holiday without any issues. If you’re respectful of the local culture, laws and community, you’ll almost certainly receive the same warmth in return.
Are Bali Locals Friendly to Tourists?
In my experience, yes. Balinese people are known for their hospitality, and that’s something I’ve experienced first-hand after living here for years. My drivers are all Balinese, many of my friends are Balinese and Indonesian, and I’ve always found locals to be welcoming and kind.
Why is Bali Cracking Down on Some Foreigners?
The focus isn’t on tourists. It’s on people breaking Indonesian laws, such as working illegally, overstaying visas or operating businesses without the proper permits. For ordinary holidaymakers, these crackdowns are unlikely to affect your trip.
Are Digital Nomads Welcome in Bali?
Yes, as long as they follow the correct visa conditions and respect local laws. Many digital nomads contribute positively to Bali by supporting local businesses and becoming part of the community.
What’s the Difference Between Tourists and Digital Nomads in Bali?
Tourists usually visit Bali for a holiday, while digital nomads often stay for months or years while working remotely. Because they’re here much longer, digital nomads are naturally more visible, which is why many recent headlines relate to long-term residents rather than tourists.
Is Bali Becoming Less Tourist-Friendly?
No. Bali is becoming less tolerant of disrespectful behaviour, not respectful tourists. Millions of people continue to visit the island every year and experience the same hospitality Bali has always been known for.
How Can I Be a Respectful Visitor in Bali?
Follow local laws, respect Balinese culture, observe temple etiquette, support local businesses and be considerate of the people around you. A little respect goes a long way.
What Should Tourists Avoid Doing in Bali?
Avoid breaking visa rules, disrespecting temples, riding scooters illegally, littering or behaving recklessly in public. These are the types of behaviour that have contributed to recent negative headlines.
What is the Bali Run Club Controversy?
The Bali Run Club controversy involved a foreign-run running club that was accused of rejecting Indonesian applicants while accepting foreigners, leading to widespread backlash online. While the incident made international headlines, it reflected concerns about one organisation’s actions, not Bali’s attitude towards tourists or foreigners as a whole.
Michael
Bali Travel ExpertAfter more than 15 years living in Bali, I’ve explored the island inside and out, from famous temples to hidden local gems. I’m fluent in Indonesian and created this website to help travelers discover the real Bali with trustworthy, practical advice.