A Guide to Buying Alcohol in Dubai in 2024
After living in Dubai for a few years, I still get a kick out of seeing tourists and new expats trying to navigate Dubai’s quirky alcohol rules. I was there once too, so I get it! But once you know the system, I swear it’s super easy. So if you’ve just landed in Dubai and you’re wondering what is going on and where to buy alcohol in Dubai, I figured I’d write a little guide about the ins and outs of buying alcohol in Dubai!
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A Guide to Buying Alcohol in Dubai in 2024
Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai?
Yes. You can absolutely buy alcohol in Dubai, as long as you’re 21 and up. The idea that Dubai is dry is one of the many common misconceptions about Dubai.
Going Out for Drinks
If you’re looking to go out for drinks at a bar, restaurant, or nightclub, do note that liquor can only be sold in establishments that are licensed. These places are usually associated with hotels, so you’ll find tons of bars and restaurants serving drinks throughout the city, especially in Dubai’s most touristy areas.
You’ll also find that alcohol is not sold in restaurants in places like Dubai Mall, or most malls for that matter. So don’t expect to have a boozy brunch or dinner at one of Dubai’s megamalls! That being said, you will find a few places in Mall of the Emirates that do serve alcohol.
Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai Supermarkets?
No! I cannot tell you how many times I’ve seen tourists load up on baskets full of beer at the grocery store. The beer that’s sold in Dubai’s grocery stores is alcohol-free (you’ll know from the 0% or AF sign, which people don’t always notice).
If that’s what you’re after – you’re in luck! But if you’re looking for something stronger, you’ll want to track down one of Dubai’s official alcohol stores.
Where to Buy Alcohol in Dubai
If you’re wondering where to buy alcohol in Dubai to take back to your apartment or hotel room, there are two retailers that sell alcohol in Dubai: MMI and African + Eastern. There are more and more branches popping up in Dubai all the time. But if you can’t track one down, fear not – they deliver! You will for sure find them in areas like the Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, etc.
These shops are usually hidden away in mall basements or obscure locations, and you’ll notice that the windows are blacked out so passersby can’t see inside. But step inside and you’ll realize you can find everything you need to mix your favorite cocktail or enjoy your favorite beer in the privacy of your own home.
Buying Alcohol as a Tourist
If you’ve entered Dubai on a tourist visa, all you need to do is show your passport when purchasing alcohol from either MMI or African + Eastern. It’s as simple as that and it’s totally free! You do not need an alcohol license, but UAE residents do.
Buying Alcohol as a Resident
Residents who hold an Emirates ID will need to get an alcohol license in order to purchase alcohol in Dubai. This used to be a bit more of an ordeal – you used to have to pay an annual fee and show a physical alcohol license when making purchases, but things have loosened up as of January 1, 2023.
How to Get an Alcohol License in Dubai
You can read my full guide on how to get an alcohol license in Dubai. But basically if you have an Emirates ID, all you have to do is pop into a branch of MMI or African + Eastern and register for an ID. It should only take a few minutes and you can purchase anything you’d like on the spot.
While you used to have to wait a few weeks or even months for the physical license, Dubai has gone away from the physical card these days. So you’ll just need to show your license barcode on the License DXB app whenever you’d like to make a purchase. And if you get home delivery, you’ll need your Emirates ID on hand (or your passport if you’re a tourist).
Updates on Dubai’s Alcohol Tax
Once again, Dubai seems to be getting more relaxed when it comes to selling alcohol. On January 1, 2023, Dubai rather suddenly and surprisingly got rid of the notorious 30% alcohol tax. So, buying alcohol in Dubai is now significantly more affordable than in years past!
That’s it! My guide to buying alcohol in Dubai in 2024. I hope this helps!
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