Alcohol in Dubai: Rules, Prices and Buying Guide

Dubai, despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Middle East,is an emirate with strict rules regarding alcohol. In this guide, you can find detailed information about alcohol consumption, prices, purchasing rules and the best bars and nightclubs in Dubai.

Is alcohol allowed in Dubai? How much are the prices? Here is your guide with up-to-date rules and places to buy!

Alcohol Consumption and Legal Situation in Dubai

Alcohol consumption in Dubai is not completely prohibited, but it is subject to strict legal regulations. In this emirate,alcohol consumption and sale are restricted to licensed venues and can only be done under certain rules.

Is alcohol allowed in Dubai? Yes, but it is strictly regulated.It is prohibited for Muslims, buttourists and expats can consume alcohol in licensed venues.

Who Can Consume Alcohol?

• Muslims: Cannot purchase or consume alcohol.
• Tourists and expats: Can drink With an ID or passport in licensed areas

Note: Although alcohol consumption is permitted in certain areas,being drunk in public can lead to serious penalties.

Where to Buy Alcohol in Dubai?

Places where you can buy alcohol in Dubai are very limited. But if you know the right places, you won’t have any problems.

• Licensed venues
  Hotels, restaurants and nightclubs in Dubai have special alcohol licenses. You can order drinks at these venues by showing your passport.
• Duty-free
  When you arrive at Dubai Airport, you can buy alcohol at affordable prices atDubai Duty-Free Duty-free prices are much more affordable than bar and market prices in Dubai.
• Specialty stores
  There are two main chains selling alcoholic beverages in Dubai: MMI and African + Eastern. However, to shop at these stores, you need to show your alcohol license.

Tourists can easily find alcohol in hotels, but consumption in public areas is strictly prohibited.

Alcohol Purchase and License Rules

• Expats require an alcohol license.
• Requirements: Be a non-Muslim,Be over 21 years of age, Have an income of more than AED 3,000 per month.
• Application: Free online with Emirates ID.
• Tourists: Can consume alcohol in hotels, bars and restaurants without a license.
• Taking alcohol into Dubai: It is illegal to bring alcohol in your luggage, except for duty-free.

Tourists do not need a licence, but must drink at licensed venues rather than buying.

Alcohol Consumption Rules and Penalties

Dubai is an emirate with strict laws on alcoholic beverages. Those who do not follow the rules may face heavy penalties.

• Public area ban: Drinking on the street is punishable by a fine or imprisonment.
• Drink driving: There is a zero-tolerance policy; those caughtrisk imprisonment.
• Drunkness: Inappropriate behavior in a public place may result in a fine or deportation.

Alcohol Prices and Taxes in Dubai

Alcohol prices in Dubaican be quite high compared to Europe.

However, the removal of the 30% alcohol tax in 2023has slightly reduced prices.

Duty-free shops, much more affordable prices compared to hotels and bars is served.

Alcohol on Fridays and Special Days

• Friday: Since it is a holy day during the morning hours alcohol servicemay be limited.
• Ramadan: Except hotels, during the dayalcohol sales are completely stopped.

Popular Bars and Nightclubs in Dubai

1. White Dubai

• Location: Meydan Hotel, close to Dubai Marina.
• Features: Open-air concept, amazingcity view, electronic music, DJ performances.
• Price: Cocktails60-100 AED, entrance feeup to 100 AED.
• Dress Code: Chic and trendy; sportswear is not acceptable.
• Why Go? One of Dubai’s most iconic nightlife experiences.

2. Buddha Bar

• Location: Grosvenor House Hotel, Al Sufouh.
• Features: Giant Buddha statue, sophisticated atmosphere, special cocktails andsushi menu.
• Price: CocktailsAED70-120, beerAround AED45.
• Dress Code: Smart casual; elegance is expected.
• Why Go? Ideal for a comfortable butluxurious evening.

3. Cirque Le Soir

• Location: Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road.
• Features: Circus-themed parties, acrobat shows, popular spot for celebrities.
• Price: Entrance 150 AED, drinks 80-150 AED.
• Dress Code: Flashy and eye-catching clothes are preferred.
• Why Go? To have an extraordinary and unforgettable night.

4. Barasti Beach Bar

• Location: Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort, Jumeirah.
• Features: On the beachlive music, sports screens ı, beach fun during the day, party at night.
• Price: Beer 40 AED, cocktails 50-80 AED.
• Dress Code: Swimsuit during the day, casual at night.
• Why Go? For an affordable and fun beach experience.

5. 360°

• Location: Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Burj Al Arab view.
• Features: 360-degree panoramic views, sunset cocktails.
• Price: CocktailsAED 70-110, entrance is usually free but reservations are recommended.
• Dress Code: Smart casual; slippers and shorts are not allowed.
• Why Go? For a romantic evening or a drink with a view.

Tip: Most venuesrequire reservations andprices may increase on special event days. I recommend checkingtheir website or social media accounts before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is alcohol allowed in Dubai?
   Yes, it is allowed in licensed places.
2. How much is alcohol in Dubai?
   Beer 10-50 AED, wine 50-150 AED.
3. Is it possible to bring alcohol into Dubai?
   It is prohibited except for duty-free.

Conclusion

Drinking alcohol in Dubaican be an enjoyable experience as long as you follow the rules. In this guide, we have covered both the legal regulations andthe most popular venues. If you have any more questionsleave a comment, stay tuned for the latest information!

We strongly recommend that you check the government website for alcohol regulations in Dubai.
For alcohol regulations click