Thinking about having a drink while you’re in Dubai? You’ll be glad to know that alcohol is allowed, but only in specific places and under clear rules. Miss the details and you could face a fine, a warning, or even detention. Below we break down the basics so you can enjoy the city’s nightlife without worries.
In Dubai, you can only consume alcohol inside licensed venues. Hotels with a star rating of three or higher usually have bars, clubs, or restaurants that serve drinks. You’ll also find lounges in high‑end malls, private members‑only clubs, and a few standalone bars that operate under a liquor license. Public areas like streets, parks, beaches, and taxis are off‑limits – drinking there can lead to immediate police action.
Buying alcohol to take home is permitted, but it must stay in your private residence. The only stores that sell liquor are designated Dubai Duty Free (at the airport) and specialty shops like MMI or African + Eastern, which require a personal liquor licence. Tourists can purchase a limited amount without a licence, but the amount is capped and you must be over the legal drinking age.
The legal drinking age in Dubai is 21 years. Bars and hotels check IDs before serving, and it’s common to see bouncers ask for passports or Emirates IDs. If you’re caught drinking under‑age, you can be fined AED 5,000 and face possible deportation for expatriates.
Alcohol‑related offences carry heavy penalties. Public intoxication can result in a fine of AED 2,000 to AED 5,000, a short jail term, or a travel ban. Driving under the influence is a criminal offence with a minimum 4‑year prison sentence and a permanent driving ban. Even if you’re just a passenger, police can seize your vehicle if they suspect any driver has been drinking.
During Ramadan, the rules tighten further. Most licensed venues stop serving alcohol from sunrise until sunset, and some close entirely. Ignoring these limits can attract fines and a police warning. The best practice is to respect the fasting hours and stick to non‑alcoholic drinks in public during the month.
If you plan to bring your own wine or whiskey for a private party, you need a personal liquor licence. The application involves a background check, proof of residence, and a fee of roughly AED 300. Once approved, you can purchase up to 4 litres of alcohol per month for personal use.
Most visitors find it easier to enjoy drinks at hotel bars, where the licence is already in place. These venues often have a happy hour, which can stretch your budget. Remember to tip the staff – a 10 % service charge is usually added to the bill, but a small extra gesture is appreciated.
Takeaway: Alcohol is legal, but only inside licensed spots, for people 21 and older, with strict penalties for public consumption or driving under the influence. Follow the venue rules, respect Ramadan timings, and you’ll have a safe, enjoyable night out in Dubai.
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.