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9 Rules About Booze And Drinking in Dubai That Everyone Should Be Aware Of
Dubai is a metropolitan city with a population of 3.43 million expats (as of 2021), according to the official Dubai Government website. Visitors and residents from all over the world live in complete harmony in this skyscraper-studded city and show the utmost respect for the emirate’s culture and laws.
Those living in Dubai, know the inner workings of the city: what’s allowed, what’s not. But the one topic that still raises a few eyebrows is that of alcohol.
Being the hub of tourism, drinking is allowed for non-Muslims. That said, the city is still a Muslim city, so while Dubai is lenient with alcohol consumption by non-Muslims in general, it still imposes strict regulations.
Hence, here are 9 rules about booze and boozing in Dubai that you must be aware of as a visitor and resident
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8. Expats can drink in licensed restaurants, hotels and bars attached to licensed hotels
In Dubai, alcohol can only be consumed privately or in licenced public areas.
7. Consuming Alcohol without a liquor licence at home is now allowed in Dubai
Drinking in other private areas such as hotel rooms is also permitted.
6. You still need a valid liquor license to PURCHASE booze from bottle shops around the city
Here are a few licensed bottle shops in Dubai:
- African + Eastern
- The Cellar Door
- MMI
- Legal Home Delivery – a legal bottle home delivery service
5. Selling alcohol to anyone below the legal drinking age in Dubai is illegal
This is according to the amendments to Federal Law No 3 of 1987 of the Penal Code.
4. Unauthorised entities who make, distribute or sell booze in Dubai are subject to severe legal action
3. Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving, this offence is punishable nationwide
2. It’s AGAINST the law to drink in public areas – including beaches, parks and gardens
Being intoxicated in public areas goes against the UAE’s cultural code and could lead up to 6 months imprisonment with hefty fines.
1. Be discreet when showing or talking about alcohol on social media
Refer to alcoholic drinks as beverages/drinks/spirits/grapes and etc.
It’s safer for your personal and business accounts.
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