Dubai Alcohol Rules: Quick Guide for Visitors and Residents

Did you know you can only drink in licensed places in Dubai? The city mixes modern nightlife with strict regulations, so knowing the basics saves you trouble and lets you enjoy a drink responsibly.

Where Drinking Is Allowed

Bars, hotels, and restaurants with a liquor licence are the only spots where alcohol can be served. You’ll find these venues in tourist areas like Downtown, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. Street cafés and malls usually don’t serve alcohol, even if they serve soft drinks.

If you’re staying at a hotel, the bar and room service are automatically covered by the hotel’s licence. Just ask the concierge if you’re unsure. Private clubs and members‑only lounges also need a licence, so check the entry policy before you go.

Who Can Get an Alcohol Licence?

Expat residents can apply for a personal alcohol licence from the Dubai Police. The process requires a valid residency visa, a passport copy, and a recent medical test. Once approved, you can buy alcohol from authorised stores and bring it home.

Tourists can’t get a personal licence, but they can still drink at licensed venues. Some hotels offer a “guest licence” that lets you purchase wine or beer from the bar and enjoy it in your room.

Remember, the legal drinking age in Dubai is 21. Staff will check ID, and refusing to show it can lead to a fine.

Public intoxication is a punishable offence. If you’re visibly drunk, police can fine you or even detain you. Keep your consumption moderate, especially in public areas.

Transport rules matter too. You can’t drink and drive – the blood‑alcohol limit is zero. Taxis, Uber, and public transport all enforce this rule strictly.

When buying alcohol from a licensed shop, you’ll need to show your licence or passport. Stores keep a record of each purchase, so you can’t buy unlimited amounts.

During Ramadan, many venues stop serving alcohol during daylight hours. Check the schedule before you plan a dinner to avoid disappointment.

Breaking any of these rules can result in fines ranging from 200 AED to several thousand, and repeat offences may lead to a ban from venues.

Bottom line: stick to licensed bars, respect the age limit, and never drink and drive. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a hassle‑free night out in Dubai.