Drinking alcohol is legal in Dubai, but there are strict regulations that visitors should be aware of. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Age restrictions:
You must be 21 years old or over to drink alcohol in Dubai. IDs are checked at bars, restaurants, and clubs to ensure that patrons are of legal drinking age.
Licensing:
In order to drink alcohol in Dubai, you must have a valid alcohol license. This license can be obtained from the Dubai Police or from licensed stores such as African + Eastern. Tourists can also obtain a temporary alcohol license from their hotel or at the airport upon arrival.
Where to drink:
Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed venues such as hotels, bars, and restaurants. Drinking alcohol in public places is strictly prohibited and can result in fines or even imprisonment.
Ramadan:
During the holy month of Ramadan, the consumption of alcohol is prohibited in public during daylight hours. Many licensed venues will not serve alcohol until after sunset.
And here are some links that you can use to provide additional information:
- Visit Dubai website: https://www.visitdubai.com/en
- Dubai Tourism website: https://www.dubaitourism.gov.ae/en/home
- Time Out Dubai guide to drinking: https://www.timeoutdubai.com/bars-nightlife
- African + Eastern website: https://www.africaneastern.com/
- Dubai Police alcohol license information: https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae/wps/portal/home/services/individualservicescontent/alcohollaw_en
