Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai? Laws and Rules in 2023

Can you buy alcohol in Dubai? And, can tourists buy alcohol in Dubai? If so, what are the Dubai liquor laws and rules? Here I will guide you through all of the laws on how to buy alcohol in Dubai. Let’s dive in!

Perhaps in your home country, you are accustomed to enjoying a relaxing drink at the end of your night. Or, maybe you enjoy a night out, sampling cocktails or wine.

Is that even possible in the United Arab Emirates? Can tourists buy alcohol in the United Arab Emirates? And what exactly are Dubai’s liquor laws?

It can be confusing for any first time visitor. And, when in Dubai, it is extremely important to know what not to do so as to avoid any run ins with the police.

After all, it is crucial to know Dubai’s alcohol laws during your visit, as they are strictly enforced here.

After visiting Dubai countless times over the past decade, often as a solo female, I think of myself as somewhat of an expert. Let me share with you exactly how to navigate the laws on alcohol in the UAE.

Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai?

Similar to other countries in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a Muslim country. This means it has strict regulations governing alcohol purchase and consumption.

Violating these laws can lead to some pretty dire consequences, including prison. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to understand the guidelines on buying alcohol in Dubai as well as the restrictions on consuming it in Dubai.

First and foremost, alcohol is not illegal in Dubai. It is possible to purchase alcohol in Dubai as both a resident and a tourist.

This is, however, heavily controlled.

Let’s dive into all the rules and laws in Dubai regarding liquor and alcohol below.

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Can tourists drink alcohol in Dubai?

Dubai is now a super popular tourist destination, so they are very familiar with the, let’s say, “western” way of life. This is also due to the large number of expats that make up Dubai’s population (in the ballpark of 85%!)

Consequently, the local laws are generally slightly more accommodating towards non-Muslim tourists and foreigners who wish to drink alcohol while in Dubai.

To make sure you adhere to the strict regulations regarding the consumption of alcohol in public spaces, here are the laws and guidelines.

The basic rules that allow you to drink alcohol in Dubai are:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You must drink in a licensed venue, such as a hotel bar or nightclub.
• It is illegal to drink out in the open, on the street, or in any public area.
• It is illegal to be drunk in public.
• It is illegal to drink and drive. To do so is a criminal offense and carries a fine of up to AED 30,000 (approximately USD 8,000) and up to 3 years in prison.

These rules are followed in Dubai, as well as all other emirates, with the exception of Sharjah.

Drinking alcohol in Sharjah is strictly prohibited under all circumstances. This applies to everyone, tourists and residents alike. Furthermore, alcohol is prohibited in Sharjah. Do not carry bottles into the emirate if you visit here.

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Where can residents and tourists drink alcohol in Dubai?

Non-Muslim residents and tourists are allowed to drink alcohol within designated areas, such as licensed restaurants, and bars, as mentioned above. However, they can also drink in certain hotels.

So, it is possible to purchase alcohol and drink it inside of your room, depending on where you are staying. This also cuts down any risk of driving after drinking or being intoxicated in public.

Where Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai?

Alcohol is sold in special liquor stores that are licensed and controlled by the government. This is the only place you can find it, save for Duty Free shops.

Let’s go over the details of buying alcohol in Dubai to consume at your home or hotel.

Can I purchase alcohol in Dubai’s supermarkets?

While you may be used to buying alcohol in supermarkets and grocery stores, that is not how it works in the UAE. Supermarkets in Dubai do not sell alcohol.

This goes for convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery shops. You will not be able to find alcohol here.

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Where to buy alcohol in Dubai

There are two main chains of liquor stores that you will see around Dubai – AFRICAN + EASTERN and the MMI Liquor Store. Both have multiple locations throughout Dubai, and you can easily find the closest location via Google Maps, one of the best travel apps to use.

But, in order to purchase bottles of alcohol, you need a license.

I know, that sounds like an ordeal. However, obtaining one is relatively straightforward and easy, especially as a tourist.

Non-Muslim tourists who wish to buy a few bottles of beer, wine, or liquor for personal consumption within their hotel rooms can “apply” for a temporary alcohol license.

This license is valid for 30 days. It can be obtained directly at the checkout of the liquor store. That includes both AFRICAN + EASTERN or MMI liquor stores.

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Here is what you need to get a Dubai alcohol license as a tourist:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You are not a resident of Dubai, or anywhere within the UAE.
• You must show your original passport and entry visa into Dubai at the liquor store checkout.
• In some cases, you will fill out a form and sign an official declaration stating that you meet the requirements. It also states that you will comply with UAE laws and regulations regarding the consumption and purchase of alcohol.
• The license is issued to you on site, immediately. Then you can buy whatever you want.

It is incredibly easy and straightforward.

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Dubai alcohol license for residents and expats in Dubai

If you are a non-Muslim expat residing in the UAE, you are also required to have an alcohol license in order to purchase alcohol in Dubai.

Luckily, as of 2019, the application process for Residents was revamped. It is now even easier than before.

Residents no longer need to provide proof of income or a housing / rental agreement – both of which were required before.

Nowadays, you only need to present your Emirates ID to obtain your license.

You can apply for the Dubai Alcohol License directly at African + Eastern or MMI stores, just like tourists. However, for residents, the issuance of the license is not immediate. It typically takes between 2 and 3 weeks for Dubai Police for approval.

To obtain a Dubai Alcohol License as a UAE Resident, here is the complete process:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You must submit a copy of your valid Emirates ID.
• You must pay a fee of AED 270.

*The Dubai Alcohol License for Residents is valid for 1 year and is renewable.

Note that you can apply for a Dubai Alcohol License for Residents only if you are a Dubai resident. For residents of other emirates, such as Ras Al Khaimah, your application will be sent for approval to the police station of that emirate.

Can You Buy Alcohol at the Dubai Airport?

Yes, you can buy alcohol at the duty free shop in Dubai’s Airport when you arrive in the country. The Duty Free shop is in the baggage claim area before exiting.

Pro Tip: You will need to show your boarding pass at the Duty Free checkout, so keep it on your person (I always use this handy passport holder and I stuff plane tickets and other important papers in there, too.)

However, there are limits as to how much one person can buy. Here are those limits.

You may buy up to 4 liters of alcohol per person. That levels out to be one of the following:

• 4 x 1 liter bottles of spirits
• 5 x 75cl bottles wine each
• or a combination of wine and spirits not exceeding 4 liters per person.
• 48 x 335ml cans of beer per person.

Need more inspiration for your visit to the UAE? My Dubai & Abu Dhabi Travel Guide is jam-packed with attractions and tips for both areas.

List of hotels That Serve Alcohol in Dubai

Need some help finding bars or hotels that serve alcohol in Dubai? Here is a list of five places to start!

1. Fai at the Palace Downtown Dubai – an intimate lounge serving handcrafted cocktails in Downtown Dubai.
2. Crossroads Cocktail Bar at Raffles – heard of Raffles’ famous Singapore Sling? Here you can get the Dubai Sling!
3. Skyview Bar at Burj Al Arab – a great stop for first-timers, this bar on the 27th floor offers amazing views of the city.
4. Pierchic Bar at Madinat Jumeirah – situated at the end of a pier, this bar has great views of the Arabian Sea.
5. Nasimi Beach – this is a cocktail and party bar on the beach!

Note that this is not an exhaustive list. There are plenty of other hotels that serve alcohol in Dubai. However, this will give you some options indoors, outdoors, and all around town.

FAQs for Buying Alcohol in Dubai

Is alcohol allowed in Dubai?

Yes, as a tourist you will be allowed to consume alcohol in Dubai. However, there are strict rules to follow as far as purchasing and drinking said alcohol. You must be 21 years old and only drink in licensed areas.

What is the legal drinking age in Dubai?

The legal drinking age in Dubai is 21, just like in the United States. If you do not have proof of age via a passport or other ID, you will not be able to purchase or drink alcohol in Dubai.

Can you buy wine in Dubai?

Yes, you can buy wine in Dubai. However, it follows all of the same rules as buying other alcohol in the emirate:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You are not a resident of the UAE.
• You must show your original passport and entry visa into Dubai.
• You will fill out a form and sign an official declaration stating that you meet the requirements and will comply with UAE laws.

Can you buy liquor in Dubai?

Yes, you can buy liquor and spirits in Dubai. However, it follows all of the same rules as buying other alcohol in the emirate:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You are not a resident of the UAE.
• You must show your original passport and entry visa into Dubai.
• You will fill out a form and sign an official declaration stating that you meet the requirements and will comply with UAE laws.

Can you buy beer in Dubai?

Yes, you can buy beer in Dubai. However, it again follows the same rules as buying other alcohol in the emirate:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You are not a resident of the UAE.
• You must show your original passport and entry visa into Dubai.
• You will fill out a form and sign an official declaration stating that you meet the requirements and will comply with UAE laws.

Is alcohol expensive in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai’s alcohol prices are known to be high. Expect to pay high prices when purchasing beer, wine, or liquor in Dubai.

Do they serve alcohol in Dubai restaurants?

Dubai only serves alcohol in licensed establishments, like hotel restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Many restaurants will not serve alcohol, so be sure to check first if you expect it.

Where can I buy alcohol in Dubai without a license?

Technically you cannot buy alcohol in Dubai without a liquor license, unless you bought it Duty Free at the airport. However, you can purchase alcohol in Ajman and Umm al Quwain without a license.

However, note that you should consume it there, as transporting it into Dubai without a license is technically illegal. You could get deported if caught.

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I hope that this guide has answered all of your questions about buying alcohol in Dubai!

Whether you are a tourist wondering if you can buy alcohol in Dubai or a new resident wondering about the process, now you know it all!

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