Alcohol in Dubai

Over the past half century, the emirate of Dubai has transformed from a nondescript fishing village into a paradise for wealthy travelers. But there is one nuance that scares off some tourists who want to fully relax on vacation - the great difficulty in acquiring alcoholic beverages. Now this barrier has been partially eliminated.

Arab taboo or how it used to be

The situation was as follows: vacationers visiting the beautiful emirate brought alcohol with them or bought alcoholic beverages in the duty-free network of "Duty Free". For those who wanted to buy alcohol on site, there were two options - buy whiskey, cognac or wine on the territory of the hotel, or buy cocktails at exorbitant prices in closed night clubs and restaurants (and drink them there, take-out is strictly prohibited). Such restrictions did not suit everyone, so many travelers chose alternative destinations for their annual vacation (Turkey, Egypt, etc.). But recently everything has changed.

Alcohol Purchase License: The Impossible Is Possible

In the summer of 2019, Dubai authorities decided to make the emirate's laws even more loyal to tourists. An official license for the purchase of alcoholic beverages was established, which can be obtained free of charge. What is required for this?

Visit one of the African & Eastern chain stores
Present your passport
Fill out the proposed questionnaire
Read the rules carefully
Get a permit booklet

With it, every tourist who has reached the age of 21 can freely buy alcoholic beverages in markets for a whole month. But there is one more condition - the traveler must not practice Islam.