Buying Beer In Dubai: A Quick Guide

If you're looking to buy beer in Dubai, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, Dubai has strict laws regarding alcohol consumption, and you need a license to purchase liquor. The legal drinking age is 21, and Muslims are prohibited from applying for a liquor license. Tourists can obtain a free license by providing their passport, filling out a form, and signing a declaration to abide by the UAE's alcohol rules. With this license, you can buy beer from any Maritime and Mercantile International (MMI) or African and Eastern liquor store in the city. Alternatively, you can purchase beer at the airport's duty-free shops, where prices are similar to those in town, but without the additional tax. Keep in mind that drinking or being under the influence of alcohol in public is a punishable offense in the UAE.

Buying beer in Dubai duty-free

Dubai has strict rules when it comes to the sale and consumption of alcohol. While alcohol is not sold in supermarkets and shops, you can buy beer in Dubai duty-free when you arrive at the airport.

Each adult visitor can import up to 4 litres of alcoholic beverages into Dubai. This can be beer, wine, or spirits. You can buy alcohol at the airport duty-free shop in the baggage hall, and you can purchase all or some of your allowance there.

The duty-free shop at the airport offers a great range of beers, spirits, champagne, and wine. Beers are usually sold in small cans of Heineken or Peroni in packs of 6, and spirits can be quite inexpensive, with basic vodka available from about 80 AED. There is a varied selection of wines, ranging in price from 40-50 AED to 500 AED and above.

Buying alcohol outside of the airport

It is important to note that alcohol is not sold in supermarkets and shops in Dubai. The only beer available in supermarkets is non-alcoholic, with brands like Bavaria offering alcohol-free options and flavoured 0.0% beers.

If you are looking to purchase alcohol outside of the airport, there are only two retail chains that are officially allowed to sell alcohol by law: African + Eastern and MMI. These stores are often located in or next to Spinneys supermarkets and can be found in malls and on Jumeirah Beach Road.

To buy alcohol from these stores, you will need a licence, which is free of charge for tourists. The licence is valid for 30 days and can be extended if needed. The process requires supplying a passport, filling out a form, and signing a declaration stating that you are not a UAE resident and agreeing to abide by the UAE's alcohol rules.

Alcohol consumption guidelines

It is important to remember that drinking alcohol in public is forbidden in Dubai, and driving under the influence is a serious offence with high prison sentences. Alcohol is also not served in many places during the annual Ramadan period, even in licensed venues like hotels and restaurants.

Buying beer in Dubai with a license

If you're a resident of Dubai and want to buy beer, you'll need to be over 21 and non-Muslim, and you'll also need to obtain an alcohol license. The good news is that, as of January 1, 2023, alcohol licenses are free for both residents and tourists.

How to get an alcohol license in Dubai as a resident

To get your alcohol license, simply head to any of the 21 MMI or African + Eastern stores across Dubai with your Emirates ID. You can apply straight away, and the process is quick and easy. Your application will be approved within 48 hours, and your new license will be ready to collect within four weeks.

Buying beer with your license

Once you have your license, you can buy beer from MMI or African + Eastern stores, or online through LegalHomeDelivery.com. You can also buy alcohol from bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, but only if they are licensed. These places are usually associated with hotels, so you'll find plenty of options throughout the city, especially in touristy areas.

Please note that alcohol is not sold in most supermarkets or malls in Dubai, and the beer that is sold in supermarkets is alcohol-free.

Alcohol tax

On January 1, 2023, Dubai removed the 30% municipal tax on alcohol, making it more affordable to buy alcohol in the city.

Drinking laws in Dubai

Dubai has a reputation for its glitz and glamour, from its epic shopping malls and breathtaking sights to its picture-perfect beaches. However, it's important to remember that the laws regarding alcohol in Dubai are very different from those in many other countries. While it is not completely illegal to drink in Dubai, there are some strict laws in place that, if broken, could result in hefty punishments.

Firstly, it is important to note the legal drinking age in Dubai. You must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol in the city, and this applies to both tourists and residents. When visiting bars, clubs, and restaurants that serve alcohol, patrons may be asked to present their ID to confirm their age before being served. Underage drinking is not tolerated, and anyone caught selling alcohol to a minor can face penalties.

For tourists looking to drink in Dubai, it is important to stick to designated areas. Drinking or being intoxicated in public, including on beaches, parks, or the street, is illegal. Licensed venues such as hotels, resorts, bars, restaurants, and clubs are the only places where alcohol consumption is permitted. It is worth noting that even in these venues, drinking laws must be respected, and drunk and disorderly behaviour is not tolerated.

In the past, tourists were unable to purchase alcohol from shops and could only consume drinks at licensed venues. However, new measures introduced in 2019 now allow non-Muslim visitors over the age of 21 to buy alcohol from specific liquor stores in the city. To do so, visitors must obtain a free 30-day alcohol licence by presenting their passport and signing an official declaration to abide by the UAE's rules on alcohol consumption. With this licence, tourists can purchase alcohol from any Maritime and Mercantile International (MMI) or African and Eastern liquor store in Dubai.

Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy on drunk driving, and driving under the influence can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. It is important to respect the local culture and drink responsibly to avoid any legal issues. Additionally, during the month of Ramadan, there are restrictions on eating and drinking, and opening hours for businesses may change.

When travelling to Dubai, it is crucial to be aware of the local laws and cultural norms to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. While the city offers a vibrant nightlife and a thriving cocktail scene, drinking in public or being intoxicated can lead to fines or arrest.

Where to buy beer in Dubai

Previously, tourists in Dubai could only purchase and consume alcohol at licensed venues such as hotels and restaurants. However, new measures have been introduced to allow non-Muslim visitors over the age of 21 to buy alcohol from Maritime and Mercantile International (MMI) or African and Eastern liquor stores in the city. To do so, visitors need to obtain a free licence by applying on arrival at any participating store. This requires supplying a passport, filling out a form, and signing a declaration stating that the applicant is not a UAE resident and agrees to abide by the UAE's rules on alcohol. The licence is valid for 30 days and can be renewed if needed.

If you are staying at a hotel, it is worth noting that some travellers have reported buying alcohol at duty-free and consuming it in their rooms or on their balconies. However, it is not recommended to carry duty-free alcohol visibly with your luggage when checking into a hotel, as this may be embarrassing. Additionally, some hotels may not allow guests to purchase unopened bottles from their bars for later consumption.

For those looking to purchase beer specifically, there are a few options available. One option is to buy beer at the Dubai Duty Free shop located in the baggage hall after arriving at the airport. Another option is to purchase beer online from liquor stores such as Al Hamra Cellar, which offers a wide range of alcoholic beverages at unbeatable prices. However, it is important to note that Al Hamra Cellar does not provide a home delivery service, and orders must be placed at least 6 hours before collection.

Alternatively, Centaurus International offers an online platform where you can buy liquor, wine, beer, and spirits from worldwide brands without requiring an alcohol license. They offer competitive prices and ensure that all products are genuine and transported in climate-controlled conditions.

Transporting beer in Dubai

Purchasing Beer

Before you can transport beer, you need to purchase it. As a tourist in Dubai, there are a few options available to you:

• Duty-Free Shops at the Airport: You can purchase alcohol, including beer, at the duty-free shops in Dubai's airports. This option allows you to bring alcohol to your hotel without needing a license.
• Licensed Stores: Tourists can now buy alcohol from licensed stores in Dubai, such as Maritime and Mercantile International (MMI) or African and Eastern liquor stores. You will need a license to purchase alcohol from these shops, but it is free and can be obtained easily by providing your passport and signing an official declaration. This license is valid for 30 days and can be renewed if needed.
• Hotels: Some travellers choose to purchase alcohol from their hotels, although it tends to be more expensive. Hotels are accustomed to guests bringing their own alcohol, and you can consume it in your room or on your balcony.

Transporting Beer

When transporting beer in Dubai, it is important to follow these guidelines:

• Quantity Limits: Each adult is allowed to bring up to 4 litres of alcohol or 48 cans of beer (355 ml each) into the UAE. Make sure your beer does not exceed this limit.
• Transportation Method: It is recommended to pack your beer in your checked baggage when travelling to Dubai. This helps to avoid any potential issues or embarrassment upon arrival.
• License: If you are transporting beer outside of the airport (i.e., from a licensed store), ensure that you have the appropriate license. As a tourist, you can obtain a free 30-day license by providing your passport and visitor visa.
• Restrictions: Do not transport or consume beer in public places, including beaches and parks. Dubai has strict laws against public drunkenness and drinking and driving. Always transport your beer directly to your accommodation or private residence.

Consumption of Beer

Once you have transported your beer to your accommodation, there are a few things to keep in mind regarding consumption:

• Drinking Locations: You can legally drink alcohol in your residence or accommodation, as well as in licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants, bars, and clubs targeted towards expats and tourists. Look for officially licensed establishments, and avoid places with "dry" signs, as they do not serve alcohol.
• Age Restriction: You must be at least 21 years old to drink alcohol in Dubai.
• Social Media Discretion: When posting about alcohol-related activities on social media, it is best to be vague and refer to alcohol generically. Avoid posting specific details about your drinks.
• Zero-Tolerance for Drunkenness: Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy for drunkenness in public. Being drunk in public can lead to jail time and hefty fines. Always consume alcohol responsibly and in moderation.

Frequently asked questions