The notion that alcohol is illegal in Dubai is among the most widespread misconceptions. Dubai is the tourism capital of the UAE, and given the large number of expatriates residing there, drinking is permitted for non-Muslims.
However, the city continues to be a Muslim community that upholds Sharia Law (the religious legal system for the Islamic faith). Therefore, although Dubai allows non-Muslims to drink alcohol, it still has rigorous regulations.
Here are some facts regarding buying and consumption of alcohol in Dubai.
Only People with Alcohol Licenses are Allowed to Buy
Even though Dubai’s drinking age is 21, unlike most other nations, not everyone of legal drinking age can just go to the store and buy a decent bottle of whiskey.
Only authorized establishments like African + Eastern and MMM are authorized to sell alcohol in the city. People must fill out a form and bring their passports to buy alcohol from these retailers.
But tourists can still enjoy a drink at a bar, a club, or a hotel without a license.
Drink Only in Designated Areas
Respecting the local religion and culture when traveling to any nation is important. Therefore, it seems sensible that people would be expected to limit their drinking to designated areas in an Islamic nation like the UAE.
Drinking is permitted in many locations across the city for visitors and locals. However, bringing alcohol into unlicensed areas like beaches, streets, and shopping centers is legally prohibited.
Public Intoxication is Against the Law
In many locations worldwide, being intoxicated and rowdy is frowned upon and even against the law. This is also the case in Dubai. People who are found intoxicated and wandering the streets, throwing up in public or starting fights can be arrested by the local police.
Visitors should be careful not to overindulge on their nights out to avoid nasty hangovers or getting into trouble. Always be respectful and follow the city’s rules and culture when going for a drink.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Although it may seem obvious, it is crucial to stress that operating a motor vehicle under the influence is prohibited. Offenders risk jail time or deportation. Visitors who plan to rent a car in this Emirate should refrain from even taking a sip of alcohol if they intend to drive.
If you’re going out for a drink, it’s preferable to choose another mode of transport to ensure that a wonderful night out doesn’t end in jail.
How to Apply for a 30-day License for Tourists
Applying for an alcohol license is a lot easier than it used to be a while back. Although the alcohol tourist license is free, it’s important to note that it’s only valid for non-Muslims who are above 21 years.
You require the following documents to apply for the license;
A photocopy of your passport with a validity of at least 3 months.
Photocopy of the passport page, which contains the entry stamp.
Passport photo.
Where to Buy Alcohol in Dubai
Once you get your license, the next step would be to locate liquor stores around Dubai. Maritime and Mercantile International(MMI) and African+Eastern(A+E) operate liquor outlets around the city. Some of their stores are conveniently located near supermarkets.
The assortment is good, and the prices are reasonable: wine costs about AED 35 and higher; vodka, AED 60; whiskey, AED 80; and beer, AED 4 to AED 8 per can or AED 100 to AED 135 per case. However, there is a 30% tax on the marked price of alcohol.
The airport Duty-Free offers a good assortment of alcoholic beverages as well. While the cost of the alcohol at the airport is comparable to that of local establishments, there is no sales tax.
Here are some places where you can buy alcohol in Dubai.
Dubai Investment Park
A+E the Cellars – Green Community, Choithrams shopping center.
SPECIALTY: The Cellars offers a wider variety of wines than typical A+E stores, which are more affordable.
MMI – Green Community, the Market Center.
The store is well-stocked and has monthly offers.
Jumeirah Lakes Towers
A+E – JLT, First Floor cluster S.
The stores in JLT provide a broad but specialized selection. Finding parking near the door is difficult, so picking a few bottles at a time is advisable.
MMI – Armada JLT. Armada tower 3 basement level.
This store is also well-stocked.
Dubai Marina
A+E Marina Walk shopping center and Marina Mall.
The location is convenient, but the selection is limited compared to other stores.
Palm Jumeirah
The Cellar door – Palm Jumeirah, Depacheka Food Hall, ground level.
It’s the only store that stocks both A+E and MMM products, leaving you spoiled for choice. Although their prices are a bit on the higher side, they are comparable to mainland prices.
Only wine is sold at the Cellar door.
Order Online
When you obtain your license, you can also take advantage of the Legal Home Delivery service to avoid the hassle of shopping in person. LegalHomeDelivery.com offers next-day delivery if you order before noon.
The minimum order amount is AED 150. (including 30 per cent municipality tax and 5 per cent VAT) and delivery is free.
Fine for Drinking Alcohol in Dubai without a license
A person caught drinking or drunk without a permit could be sentenced to six months in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both. This is per the 1972 UAE Alcohol Law.
Changes to Alcohol-Related Laws
The UAE made significant legal changes to its alcohol drinking rules toward the end of 2020. The country is gradually eschewing its strict adherence to Islamic personal law in favor of a more liberal stance.
The decriminalization of drinking alcohol without a permit is one of the reforms. In the past, even those of legal age could not purchase, sell, or transport alcohol without a license.
Article 313 of Federal Decree in Law no. 15 of 2020 changed the requirements, allowing people to consume alcoholic beverages in permitted areas without worrying about legal repercussions.
Article 313 states, “There will be no punishment for possessing, consuming, or trading in alcoholic drinks in the situations and at places allowed as per applicable legislation.” The new law applies to the entire country.
The new amendment also permits Muslims previously prohibited from getting licenses to consume beer and other alcoholic beverages to do so without incurring any fines.
It should be noted that the legal drinking age in the United Arab Emirates is still 21, and it is still illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age.
Although the new law makes it easier for locals and visitors to drink in the city, it doesn’t appear to have fully taken effect yet. As a result, you might still require a legal license to buy alcohol in a liquor store right now.
For instance, African & Eastern and Maritime and Mercantile International, the two biggest liquor retail chains in the nation, both continue to indicate on their websites that a consumer must have an alcohol license and even provide instructions on obtaining one.
Bottom Line
Although drinking alcohol is allowed in most parts of Dubai, you should drink moderately to avoid getting into trouble. Only drink in licensed places. Although it is no longer illegal to consume alcohol without a license, you still need one to buy and possess alcohol in Dubai.
Finally, Drunk and disorderly behavior can land you in trouble. Following these rules can save you a lot of trouble and make your vacation fun as you lawfully enjoy your alcohol.
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