Alcohol in Dubai is a subject surrounded by myths. This is therefore a clear guide to alcohol in Dubai — from importing and consumption through to typical prices and the key laws you should know.
- Alcohol is legal in Dubai. The UAE is one of the few GCC states where non-Muslims may buy and consume alcohol.
- Import: a maximum of 4 litres of spirits or wine plus 24 cans of 355 ml beer — for non-Muslims only.
- Buying takes place in a liquor store (tourists with a passport, residents with an Emirates ID after registering once) or in duty free.
- Zero tolerance behind the wheel. Drink-driving is punished with fines of several thousand euros — unlike in Germany or Austria there is no legal limit.
- Prices in liquor stores and duty free are close to European levels; in clubs, hotels and restaurants you pay a multiple of that.
Is it allowed to drink alcohol in Dubai?
One of the most important questions first: is drinking alcohol allowed in Dubai? The answer is a clear yes. The UAE is one of the few GCC states where alcohol may be consumed.
Import
In principle you may also import alcohol into the UAE and Dubai. However, this is reserved exclusively for non-Muslims, and the following import limits apply:
- Maximum 4 litres for stronger drinks such as wine, vodka, champagne and the like.
- Maximum 24 cans of 355 ml each, of beer or cider.
Buying
Alcohol in Dubai is bought in so-called liquor stores. One well-known chain is African + Eastern. These shops, often not visible from the outside, stock alcohol from all over the world. Tourists can buy there with a passport, residents with an Emirates ID. Residents do have to register once in order to buy. Here too there are no limits, provided you are not a Muslim.
Consumption
As for consuming alcohol on the ground in Dubai, there are no limits. You should be aware, however, that certain activities such as driving are punished severely.
For drink-driving there is — unlike in Austria or Germany — no legal limit. Anyone driving under the influence must expect a fine of several thousand euros.
That is why the well-established “Driver” app now exists, through which you can book a driver who takes both the car and its owner home safely.
Prices
Alcohol prices are of course higher than in Europe, for example — but not as much higher as some would expect. Buying in the dedicated liquor stores costs only a small premium; buying in duty free at the airport can even save you money.
Where you definitely pay a multiple is in clubs, hotels and restaurants. These venues apply a premium price to alcoholic drinks of every kind.
| Wo | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Beer (bar, club, hotel) | 7 – 10 € |
| Mixed drink / cocktail (bar, club) | from €20 |
| Luxury champagne (e.g. Dom Pérignon, club) | over €1,000 |
| Liquor store / duty free | only a small premium compared with Europe |
How this fits into a monthly budget is shown in the article on the cost of living in Dubai.
Frequently asked questions
Here is an overview of the most frequently asked questions and answers about alcohol in Dubai.
Where can you buy alcoholic drinks in Dubai?
Alcohol is available in dedicated shops, so-called liquor stores, or in duty free at the airport. Otherwise you can also get alcohol in many hotels, bars, restaurants and clubs.
Are there penalties for drinking alcohol?
As long as alcohol is not consumed in public places, there are no penalties for drinking. If, however, offences such as car accidents are connected to it, the laws are very strict and heavy penalties apply.
For cars and motorbikes a zero-tolerance limit applies to alcohol.
How expensive is alcohol in Dubai?
Depending on where you buy alcohol, prices vary widely. Those who go to liquor stores or buy in duty free pay the least, usually not much more than in Europe. In clubs, restaurants, hotels and bars, however, you pay a multiple.
Summary
Alcohol in Dubai is entirely legal and also a major part of tourism. The UAE is one of the few countries in the region that makes alcohol very accessible. From importing through consumption to buying, there are no restrictions for non-Muslims. Only certain import limits have to be observed.
Prices in liquor stores and duty free are comparable to those in European shops. It only becomes really expensive in hotels, clubs, bars and at certain events — there you pay a multiple compared with Europe.
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