Thinking about having a drink while you’re in Dubai? You can, but there are rules that most tourists miss. Knowing the basics saves you from awkward moments, fines, or a night at the police station.
First off, drinking is legal for adults in licensed venues. That means hotels, private clubs, and certain bars that have a liquor licence from the government. You won’t find a beer stand on the beach, but you’ll see sleek lounge bars in the Marina, Downtown, and Jumeirah Beach Residences. The legal drinking age for foreigners is 21, so carry ID if you look younger.
You can buy alcohol in the liquor sections of big supermarkets like Carrefour, Spinneys, and Waitrose, but only if you have a personal licence. The licence is a simple form you fill out online, pay a small fee, and it’s valid for a year. If you’re staying in a hotel, the staff can arrange drinks for you without a licence – they’ll just charge you a premium price.
When you fly into Dubai, you’re allowed to bring in 4 litres of alcohol, 2 litres of wine, or 1 litre of spirits without paying duty. Anything above that will be taxed, and you could be asked to toss it out. Pack your bottles in checked luggage, not carry‑on, to avoid delays at security.
Dubai’s nightlife is vibrant, but it follows local customs. Bars are usually inside hotels, and many have strict dress codes – no shorts or flip‑flops in the lounge area. If you’re looking for a cheap beer, the hotel bars are pricey; the best value is at larger clubs that run happy‑hour deals on weekdays.
Ramadan changes the game. From sunrise to sunset, drinking in public is illegal, and even the hotel bars close their doors. Most venues will serve non‑alcoholic drinks only. If you’re visiting during this holy month, plan to enjoy drinks after sunset, and always check the opening times.
Public drunkenness is a punishable offense. If you’re out for a night, keep your intake moderate and never try to bring bottles into public places like beaches or parks. If you’re caught, you could face a fine or a short jail term.
To stay on the safe side, stick to licensed spots, respect local customs, and never drink and drive. Taxis and ride‑hailing services are cheap and reliable, so you won’t need a car for a night out.
Bottom line: you can enjoy a cocktail, a cold beer, or a glass of wine in Dubai as long as you do it in the right places, have the right ID, and follow the cultural calendar. Follow these tips and you’ll have a smooth, fun experience without any unwanted surprises.
Curious about Dubai’s alcohol laws? Learn if you can drink in Dubai, where to do it, rules, key facts, and tips for travelers that want to stay safe and legal.