Dubai, a bustling city in the United Arab Emirates, is known for its strict laws regarding the consumption and sale of alcohol.
In Dubai, it is illegal to purchase, consume or possess alcohol without a valid alcohol license.
However, obtaining a license can be complicated, and tourists and non-Muslim residents may need help to obtain one.
As a result, many individuals seek alternative methods to purchase alcohol without a license.
This article will explore options available to those who wish to purchase alcohol in Dubai without a license, the risks involved, and the legal implications of doing so.
Where To Buy Alcohol In Dubai Without License
Dubai, like the rest of the United Arab Emirates, has strict laws and regulations when it comes to the sale and consumption of alcohol.
Individuals in Dubai who wish to purchase, possess or consume alcohol must have a valid alcohol license.
However, obtaining an alcohol license in Dubai is a challenging process and requires certain conditions to be met.
Tourists and non-Muslim residents may find it particularly challenging to obtain an alcohol license.
For those who do not have a valid alcohol license, buying alcohol in Dubai can be a daunting task.
Nevertheless, there are some ways to purchase alcohol without a license.
Here are some of the most common ways:
1. Duty-free shops
If you are a tourist, the easiest way to purchase alcohol is through a duty-free shop.
Duty-free shops are available at Dubai International Airport, and you can purchase alcohol there on arrival or departure.
The alcohol you buy at the duty-free shop must be consumed in your hotel room or other private areas, not in public places.
2. Online delivery
Several websites offer online alcohol delivery in Dubai.
Some popular online alcohol delivery websites in Dubai are Drinkzy, BottlesXO, and Shopkeeper.
These sites require you to provide identification, such as a passport or Emirates ID, to confirm that you are over 21.
3. Hotels and restaurants
Many hotels and restaurants in Dubai have bars and serve alcohol to their customers.
However, they are only permitted to serve alcohol to customers dining on the premises.
4. Black market
The black market in Dubai is a risky option for purchasing alcohol without a license.
The black market involves purchasing alcohol from unlicensed sources, which is illegal and carries severe penalties if caught.
The black market is not recommended, and it is best to avoid it altogether.
How To Apply For A Liquor Licence In Abu Dhabi?
Obtain a residency visa
You must have a valid residency visa in Abu Dhabi to apply for a liquor license.
If you are a tourist, you are not eligible to apply for a liquor license.
To apply for a liquor license in Abu Dhabi, follow these steps:
Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
You must obtain a NOC from your employer stating that they have no objection to you applying for a liquor license.
Gather the necessary documents: You must provide a copy of your passport, residency visa, NOC from your employer, and a passport-size photograph.
Complete the application form
You can download the application form from the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) website or obtain a hard copy from authorized retailers.
Submit the application form
You can submit the completed application form and the required documents to any authorized retailer.
Wait for approval
Your application will be reviewed by the TCA, and if approved, you will receive your liquor license within a few days.
It is important to note that obtaining a liquor license in Abu Dhabi is subject to change.
It is always recommended to check the latest regulations and requirements before applying.
Additionally, there are certain restrictions on the purchase and consumption of alcohol in Abu Dhabi, and it is important to adhere to these regulations to avoid legal issues.
What Is the Average Price of Alcohol in Dubai?
The price of alcohol in Dubai can vary depending on the type of alcohol, the brand, and the place of purchase.
In general, alcohol is more expensive in Dubai than in other countries due to the strict regulations and taxes.
- A beer bottle can range from AED 8 to 25 in supermarkets or convenience stores.
- A bottle of wine can cost anywhere between AED 40 to AED 400, depending on the brand and quality.
- A bottle of spirits such as vodka, gin, or whiskey can range from AED 100 to AED 1,500, depending on the brand and age.
It is important to note that the price of alcohol in Dubai can also be affected by various factors, such as the place of purchase, the time of year, and any ongoing promotions or sales.
Conclusion
While it is illegal to purchase or consume alcohol without a license in Dubai, a few options are available for non-Muslim tourists who wish to enjoy a drink.
Some hotels and licensed restaurants have bars where alcohol is served to their patrons, and duty-free shops at the airport also offer a limited selection of alcohol for travelers.
However, it is important to remember that the laws and regulations regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol in Dubai are strictly enforced, and individuals caught violating these laws may face severe consequences.
Therefore, it is always recommended to obtain a valid alcohol license if you wish to purchase or consume alcohol in Dubai and to be aware of the restrictions and guidelines in place to avoid any legal issues.
References
- Everything you need to know about getting an alcohol license in Dubai. (2023, January 2). What’s On. https://whatson.ae/2023/01/everything-you-need-to-know-about-getting-an-alcohol-license-in-dubai/
- Can you buy alcohol in Dubai without any license? (n.d.). Quora. https://www.quora.com/Can-you-buy-alcohol-in-Dubai-without-any-license
- (2021, August 19). The Alcohol License Permit in Dubai 2022: Rules and Costs. Business Incorporation Zone. https://www.businessincorporationzone.ae/blog/alcohol-license-dubai-cost/
- Complete Guide on How to Get an Alcohol Licence in Dubai – MyBayut. (n.d.). A Blog About Homes, Trends, Tips & Life in the UAE | MyBayut. https://www.bayut.com/mybayut/how-apply-alcohol-licence-dubai/
