Many people believe that alcohol is completely banned in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, with strict penalties for importing, buying, or drinking it. While there are rules, you can drink alcohol in Dubai. Other Emirates have stricter rules about alcohol, so if you plan to visit them, be aware. For example, in Sharjah, selling and drinking alcohol is not allowed.
You can bring alcohol into Dubai. Each adult can bring up to 4 liters of alcohol, whether it's beer, wine, or spirits. You can buy it at your departure airport or at Duty Free shops in the Dubai airport near the baggage area. You can then take your purchases through the country without issues and drink them in your hotel room. If you plan to drink alcohol in Dubai, buy it at the airport.
Can You Drink Alcohol in Dubai as a Tourist?
Many travelers ask if they can drink alcohol in Dubai. Yes, but there are rules. Tourists can drink alcohol, but only in places like hotels, clubs, and some restaurants. You cannot drink in public places like beaches and parks. Doing so can get you in serious trouble.
In Dubai, residents need a license to buy alcohol, but tourists do not. When buying alcohol, tourists should carry their passport for identification to follow local laws.
It is very important to drink responsibly. Being drunk in public is illegal and can lead to big problems. Always be aware of where you are and respect the local rules.
Dubai's Alcohol Laws for Tourists
Understanding Dubai's alcohol rules is important for visitors. The city is more flexible than other parts of the UAE, but it still has strict rules about drinking alcohol.
Legal Drinking Age: You must be 21 years old to drink in Dubai. Always carry your ID to prove your age when buying alcohol or entering places that serve it.
Designated Areas: You can only drink in certain places like licensed hotels, clubs, restaurants, and private homes. Drinking in public places is not allowed and can get you in trouble.
Purchasing Alcohol: Tourists can buy alcohol from licensed stores without needing a special license. Just make sure to carry your passport for ID when buying.
By following these rules, tourists can enjoy drinking in Dubai without any problems.
Where to Buy Alcohol in Dubai?
Finding a place to buy alcohol in Dubai might seem hard, but it's easier once you know where to go. You can buy alcohol from licensed stores and special shops.
Hotels and Clubs: Many hotels and clubs have their own bars and liquor stores where you can get alcohol. These places are well-regulated and offer many options from local drinks to international brands.
Dubai Airport: You can buy alcohol at the duty-free shops in Dubai International Airport. This is a convenient option for tourists who want to get alcohol when they arrive.
Specialized Liquor Stores: There are licensed liquor stores in Dubai, such as African+Eastern and MMI (Maritime and Mercantile International). These stores sell various alcoholic drinks and are open to both residents and tourists.
When buying alcohol, always carry your ID, especially if you're a tourist. This will help you buy alcohol easily and follow local laws.
Cost of Alcohol in Dubai
The cost of alcohol in Dubai varies a lot depending on where you buy it and what you want. Generally, alcohol is more expensive in Dubai than in many other places, but new tax laws have made it a bit cheaper.
Price Range: A beer can cost between AED 30 and AED 50 in bars and restaurants, while a bottle of wine might cost between AED 100 and AED 300. Liquor stores are cheaper, so they are better for buying in bulk.
Factors Influencing Prices: The price of alcohol in Dubai is affected by import duties, venue markups, and the type of place. High-end hotels and exclusive clubs charge more, while local bars and restaurants are usually cheaper.
Dubai's Alcohol Culture
Dubai has a lively and diverse alcohol scene for everyone. If you want a relaxed beach drink or a night out at a fancy club, Dubai has it.
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR): JBR is a favorite spot for tourists and locals. It has many bars and restaurants with great views of the Arabian Gulf. Many places here serve alcohol, making it a top choice for a night out.
Hotels and Clubs: Dubai's luxury hotels and clubs offer some of the best nightlife. Places like the Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, and Zero Gravity have top-notch bars and clubs perfect for a night out.
Special Events: Dubai hosts various events and festivals throughout the year that include alcohol. Events like the Dubai Food Festival, Oktoberfest celebrations, and New Year's Eve parties draw large crowds and provide a great atmosphere for enjoying a drink.
Dubai's Restaurants with Alcohol
Dubai's food scene is as diverse as its people, with many restaurants that serve alcohol, combining great dining with drinks. Here are some of them:
Nobu
Nobu at Atlantis The Palm serves Japanese-Peruvian food. Known for its sushi, sake, and fancy vibe. Nobu, in Atlantis The Palm, mixes Japanese and Peruvian flavors for a unique taste. The restaurant is famous for its sushi, which goes well with a variety of sake, champagne, wine, and beer. The classy setting is perfect for a special dining experience.
Pierchic (Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah)
The food is seafood, famous for its romantic setting on a pier with ocean views and a great wine list. Pierchic is known for its beautiful location at the end of a pier with ocean views. This romantic seafood restaurant at Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, is great for a special night out. Pierchic has a large wine list, along with whisky, gin, rum, cognac, tequila, vodka, beer, and creative cocktails, so there is something for everyone.
Zuma (DIFC)
This Japanese restaurant is known for its modern izakaya style and large sake selection. Located in the Dubai International Financial Centre, Zuma offers a modern take on traditional izakaya dining. The menu has many Japanese dishes, and the restaurant is known for its wide selection of sake. Guests can also enjoy various drinks and a lively atmosphere, making it a top spot for food lovers and those wanting a vibrant experience.
Buying Alcohol in Dubai
Anyone searching for alcohol in Dubai's supermarkets will be disappointed. Alcohol isn't sold in any supermarkets in the UAE, so you won't find beer or wine on the shelves. However, you can buy non-alcoholic beer, such as the Dutch brand Bavaria, which comes in flavors like strawberry, peach, orange, apple, and lemon.
Only two retail chains can legally sell alcohol: African + Eastern and MMI. To buy from these stores, you used to need an "Alcohol License." But since December 2020, the rules have changed, and tourists can now also shop at African + Eastern and MMI stores. These stores are often located in or next to Spinneys supermarkets, such as in Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battuta Mall, Al Safa, Marina Walk in Dubai Marina, and Jumeirah Beach Road. The shop windows are covered so that Muslims cannot see the alcohol bottles. For more store locations, visit the MMI or African + Eastern websites.
While it's hard to get alcohol in supermarkets, many hotels in Dubai serve drinks. Many hotels have licenses to serve alcohol and offer various places to drink, from fancy restaurants and stylish bars to lively nightclubs. This ensures that guests have plenty of options to enjoy a drink.
Popular Hotels Offering Alcohol
Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab is known as the world's only 7-star hotel. It offers luxury rooms and several fancy bars and restaurants. At the Skyview Bar, guests can enjoy city views while drinking premium cocktails. Al Mahara is an underwater-themed restaurant with a big aquarium, serving seafood and fine wines. The hotel also has a private beach, a lavish spa, and personalized butler service. It's a symbol of ultimate luxury in Dubai.
Atlantis The Palm
Located on the famous Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis The Palm is a grand resort with many places to drink like Nobu, a well-known Japanese-Peruvian restaurant with lots of sake, the Wavehouse, which has dining, games, and live shows, and the Atlantis Beach Club where people can relax by the pool with a cocktail. The resort also has the Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium, offering many activities for guests of all ages.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
This hotel is famous for its beautiful beachfront location. It has many places to drink, like the Uptown Bar, where you can see amazing views of the Arabian Gulf and choose from many international wines and spirits. Beachcombers is a family-friendly restaurant that serves different Asian foods and tropical cocktails. Villa Beach is a cozy spot where you can enjoy Mediterranean dishes with wine right by the shore. The hotel’s wave-like shape and various fun activities, such as tennis courts and a kids' club, make it popular with families and couples.
Armani Hotel Dubai
Located in the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, the Armani Hotel is very elegant and stylish. It includes places like Armani Prive, an exclusive nightclub with a chic atmosphere and VIP guests, and Armani/Lounge, where you can enjoy top-shelf drinks and live piano music. The hotel also offers delicious Italian food at Armani/Ristorante and Japanese dishes at Armani/Hashi, providing a variety of dining options. Guests can relax at the Armani/Spa, which features personalized treatments and great views of Downtown Dubai.
These hotels ensure that even though Dubai's laws restrict alcohol availability in regular stores, visitors and residents can still enjoy a wide range of alcoholic beverages in a luxurious setting. Check the hotel's website for details on opening hours and reservation policies. Whether you're looking for lively nightlife or a quiet place to enjoy a fine drink, these establishments offer something for everyone, making Dubai an attractive travel destination.
Alcohol Tax in Dubai
To boost tourism and attract international visitors, Dubai recently removed the 30% tax on alcohol sales. This change has affected both residents and tourists.
With the tax gone, alcohol is now cheaper, making it more affordable for everyone. Tourists can enjoy drinks without high costs.
Residents and tourists are happy with this change. Lower prices have led to more people visiting bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Figuring out alcohol rules in Dubai can be confusing at first, but with some information, visitors can enjoy their stay without issues. Learn where to buy alcohol, know the local laws, and stay updated on tax changes to have a good time.
Whether you're sipping a cocktail at a beach bar in JBR or having wine at a luxury hotel, Dubai offers something for everyone. Remember to drink responsibly, respect the customs, and enjoy your visit.
FAQ
Can I drink alcohol on the beach in Dubai?
You cannot drink alcohol on public beaches in Dubai. Some private beach clubs and resorts may allow it if they have permits.
Can I buy alcohol at duty-free shops in Dubai?
Non-Muslim travelers can buy alcohol at duty-free shops in Dubai. Be aware of the rules on bringing alcohol into the country and drink responsibly.
Can I drink alcohol in Dubai Airport?
Yes, for instance you can drink alcohol on Emirates flights. Alcohol is served in the lounges at Dubai Airport and sold in the Duty-Free shops. Travelers can enjoy alcoholic drinks responsibly while waiting for their flights.
Is alcohol expensive in Dubai?
Prices can vary significantly depending on the venue, with bars and restaurants often charging a premium compared to retail stores, but they are generally not expensive.
Do shops sell alcohol in Dubai?
Yes, shops in Dubai do sell alcohol, but it is regulated. Alcohol can typically be purchased at licensed supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants. Non-Muslim residents can also obtain a license to buy alcohol for personal use.
Can you take alcohol into Dubai?
Yes, you can bring alcohol into Dubai, but there are restrictions. You are allowed to bring up to 4 liters of alcohol for personal use if you are 21 years or older. It's important to keep it in its original packaging and declare it at customs if necessary.
Do restaurants in Dubai serve alcohol?
Yes, many restaurants in Dubai serve alcohol, but it is typically available only in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars, and certain restaurants.
Is Dubai an alcohol free city?
No, Dubai is not an alcohol-free city. While the consumption of alcohol is regulated and primarily restricted to certain licensed venues such as hotels, bars, and specific restaurants, both residents and tourists can purchase and consume alcohol within these parameters. Non-Muslim residents can also obtain a license to buy alcohol from retail outlets for private use. It is important to adhere to local laws and regulations when it comes to alcohol consumption in Dubai.
Does Dubai have nightclubs?
Yes, Dubai has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous nightclubs. These clubs offer a range of experiences from upscale venues with renowned international DJs to more relaxed bars with live music. Many nightclubs are located in hotels, given the licensing regulations, making them accessible to tourists and residents alike. Dubai's nightclubs are known for their luxurious settings, elaborate themes, and high-energy atmosphere.