A misleading news story dominated the headlines of British tabloids last month.

The Ellie Holman case suggested the Swedish dentist was arrested for drinking a glass of wine after she disembarked an Emirates flight.

And whether you’ve been a resident here for years, or you’re planning your next vacation here, the story could make you question what’s permitted and what’s not with regards to consuming alcohol in the UAE.

The British embassy has clarified drinking laws for residents and tourists

The post to the verified ‘UK in Dubai’ Facebook page states there has been no change in the laws, however anyone who is unsure can read the full post by the British embassy here.

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The important bits

• Alcohol licences are available for non-Muslim residents to drink alcohol at home and in licenced venues
• Non-residents cannot obtain licences. However, it is permitted for non-residents to purchase alcohol in licenced venues
• It is a punishable offence to be under the influence of alcohol in public (people have been charged under this law, in most cases when police have been alerted to their behaviour for another offence such as disorderly behaviour)
• The drinking age in Dubai is 21

READ: HOW TO: 3 Simple Ways To Go About Getting Your Alcohol Licence In Dubai

READ: Drinking Laws In Dubai: 4 Important Points That Every Resident And Tourist Needs To Know