UAE alcohol laws: What you need to know before buying or drinking in each emirate
Discover age restrictions, licence requirements, and rules on drinking in public for residents and tourists alike
Whether you're a resident or tourist in the UAE, understanding the country's alcohol regulations is essential. While the UAE has made strides towards more relaxed alcohol laws, these vary significantly across the seven emirates.
Each emirate exercises its authority to enforce local laws, often with distinct differences.
Here’s a complete guide to help you navigate alcohol regulations in the UAE:
Alcohol regulations in UAE
The UAE legalised alcohol consumption under Federal Decree Law No. 15 of 2020, but local emirate laws still govern its sale, purchase, and consumption.
Federal provisions include:
- Minimum Age: The legal age to drink or buy alcohol is 21 years across all emirates.
- Public Consumption: Drinking alcohol in public spaces is strictly prohibited nationwide.
- Penalties: Violations of alcohol laws can lead to fines, imprisonment, or deportation, depending on the offence.
- Article 313 (Bis): Removes federal penalties for drinking in authorised locations but allows individual emirates to set stricter rules.
EMIRATE-BY-EMIRATE BREAKDOWN
Dubai
Dubai is known for its relatively liberal stance on alcohol, but regulations are in place to maintain order.
Alcohol Licence requirements
- A licence is mandatory to buy alcohol for private consumption.
- Tourists can apply for a temporary licence (valid for 30 days) at licensed retailers like African + Eastern and MMI.
- Residents can obtain a free licence by presenting their Emirates ID at these outlets or applying online at LicensedXB.com.
Where you can drink
- Licensed venues such as bars, restaurants, and hotels.
- Private residences if you hold an alcohol licence.
Rules
- Zero tolerance for drunk driving.
- Drinking in public or causing disturbances while intoxicated can lead to fines of up to Dh5,000 or imprisonment.
Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi, the alcohol licence requirement was abolished in 2020, but some regulations still apply.
What’s allowed
- Alcohol can be purchased for personal consumption by individuals aged 21 and above.
- Drinking is permitted in licensed establishments and private residences.
What’s prohibited
- Reselling alcohol is illegal.
- Smuggling alcohol into Abu Dhabi without proper authorisation can lead to legal consequences.
Penalties for violations
- Selling alcohol to minors: Dh40,000–80,000 fines for repeat offences.
- Advertising alcohol: Up to Dh40,000 fine for repeated violations.
Sharjah
Sharjah has the strictest alcohol laws in the UAE, as it is a dry emirate.
Prohibited activities
- Sale, purchase, or public consumption of alcohol.
- Licences for personal consumption are not issued.
What’s allowed?
Non-Muslim residents may consume alcohol privately in their homes.
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah permits alcohol consumption but maintains certain restrictions.
Alcohol Licence
- A licence is not required to purchase alcohol for personal use.
- Establishments may ask for ID to confirm the buyer is over 21.
Key Regulations
- Public intoxication or disturbances can incur fines of Dh2,000.
- Repeat offenders within a year face fines of Dh5,000.
Ajman, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain
These three emirates are among the most relaxed regarding alcohol laws.
General guidelines
- No alcohol licence is required.
- Buyers must be at least 21 years old and may need to present an ID.
Prohibited actions
- Public consumption of alcohol.
- Drunk and disorderly behaviour in public spaces.
Penalties across all UAE emirates
Despite varying regulations, some laws apply nationwide:
Underage Drinking: Severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines of Dh5,000–Dh100,000 for selling or providing alcohol to minors.
- Drunk Driving: Fines between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000, vehicle confiscation, and possible jail time.
- Public Intoxication: Fines ranging from Dh1,000 to Dh5,000 or imprisonment.
How to obtain an Alcohol Licence in UAE
For Residents:
- Visit licensed retailers like African + Eastern or MMI.
- Provide Emirates ID and residency details.
- Receive your licence within 2–4 weeks, valid for 12 months.
For Tourists:
- Apply for a temporary licence at authorised outlets.
- Present your passport.
- Receive a licence immediately, valid for 30 days.
Plan responsibly!
Alcohol laws in the UAE reflect a balance between modernisation and respect for local culture. While some emirates offer leniency, others enforce stricter measures. Whether a resident or visitor, understanding and adhering to these regulations will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the country.