ALCOHOL

Travel tips

Contrary to popular belief, there is no total ban on alcohol in Dubai or the other United Arab Emirates, although penalties for alcohol-related offences are severe. In Dubai, alcohol consumption is more tolerated than in other Emirates, which apply stricter regulations on the sale and consumption of alcohol. It’s important to find out about these laws if you’re planning to visit neighboring Emirates. It should be noted that in the Emirate of Sharjah, the sale and consumption of alcohol is totally prohibited.

Importing alcohol into Dubai is not prohibited. Adults are allowed to bring up to four liters of alcoholic beverages, whether beer, wine or spirits. Alcohol can be purchased at departure airports, but also on arrival at Dubai airport, where duty-free stores sell these products near the baggage carousels. These acquisitions can easily be imported for private consumption, for example in a hotel room. However, if you wish to consume alcohol during your stay in Dubai, it’s best to make your purchases at the airport, as you won’t find alcohol for sale in the city’s stores.

Here is a short text that summarizes alcohol legislation and consumption in several points:

  1. Alcohol legislation: Contrary to popular belief, Dubai does not have a complete prohibition on alcohol. However, the laws are strict and must be scrupulously observed to avoid heavy penalties.
  2. Moderate consumption: Dubai is more permissive than other Emirates, but it’s essential to stay informed of local rules, especially if visiting other Emirates where restrictions can be more severe, such as Sharjah where alcohol is completely banned.
  3. Personal importation: Travelers entering Dubai are authorized to import up to four liters of alcoholic beverages, regardless of type and alcohol content.
  4. Buying alcohol: You can buy alcohol at the airport, in Duty Free areas. This allows visitors to purchase alcohol on arrival and consume it privately, for example in their hotel room.
  5. Limited availability: Outside the airport, the purchase of alcohol is restricted. It is not sold in regular stores and is generally consumed in hotels and private clubs with a license.
  6. Responsible drinking: Dubai encourages responsible drinking. Drunken behavior in public is particularly frowned upon, and can lead to arrests.
  7. Liquor license: Residents must obtain a license to purchase and consume alcohol at home. Tourists, for their part, are not eligible for these licenses, but may consume in licensed establishments.

These points reflect the balance between controlled tolerance and the strict rules Dubai maintains on alcohol consumption.