Posted by Many tourists wonder before their trip: Are you allowed to drink alcohol in Dubai?
The answer is: Yes – but under clear conditions. Dubai is more liberal than other emirates, but alcohol remains strictly regulated. In this article, you will find all essential information about alcohol consumption, laws, prices and practical behaviour tips in Dubai in 2025.
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Where can you drink alcohol in Dubai?
In Dubai, alcohol is allowed only in licensed venues. These include hotel bars, restaurants, clubs and certain lounges. Drinking in public – such as on the street, at the beach or in parks – is prohibited and can result in high fines.
- ✅ Allowed: in hotels, bars, restaurants, licensed clubs
- ❌ Forbidden: on the street, in public parks, at the beach, in taxis or the metro
- Minimum age: 21 years
In licensed venues, alcohol is served normally. Tourists do not need a special permit or alcohol license as long as they consume alcohol in a hotel or restaurant.
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Alcohol in hotels & restaurants
Almost all 4- and 5-star hotels in Dubai have an alcohol license. This means you can easily order beer, wine or cocktails – often until late at night. Alcohol is also served in hotel pools, rooftop bars and beach clubs.
Tip: Restaurants outside of hotels may only serve alcohol if they have a license. Many smaller venues offer no alcohol at all and only serve non-alcoholic drinks.
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Buying alcohol in Dubai
Alcohol is only available in special licensed shops – so-called liquor stores. The best-known chains are African + Eastern and MMI (Maritime & Mercantile International).
- ️ Sales only to people over 21 years old
- Passport or ID must be shown
- No public transport of alcohol (e.g., bus or metro)
- Alcohol is packed in opaque bags
Since 2020, tourists may also buy alcohol without a special license – as long as consumption takes place privately or in licensed venues.
Popular liquor stores:
- African + Eastern (several branches, e.g., Mall of the Emirates, Al Wasl Road)
- MMI (locations in Dubai Marina, Ibn Battuta Mall, Festival City, etc.)
Alcohol prices in Dubai 2025
Alcohol is significantly more expensive in Dubai than in Europe due to high taxes. Hotels and bars add service charges and VAT. However, there are frequent happy hours with 2-for-1 deals.
Prices in bars & restaurants (2025):
- Beer (0.5 l): 40–55 AED (~10–14 €)
- Glass of wine: 45–60 AED (~12–16 €)
- Cocktail: 60–90 AED (~15–23 €)
- Spirits (shot): 35–45 AED (~9–12 €)
- Bottle of wine (hotel): from 180 AED (~45 €)
Prices in liquor stores (tax-free, self-purchase):
- Beer (can, 0.33 l): 15–20 AED (~4–5 €)
- Bottle of wine (0.75 l): from 100 AED (~25 €)
- Whisky (0.7 l): from 160 AED (~40 €)
- Vodka (0.7 l): from 130 AED (~32 €)
Fines & laws
Dubai is strict when it comes to alcohol abuse. Drinking is allowed – but drunkenness in public is not. Driving after drinking alcohol is absolutely prohibited.
Fines (2025):
| Offence | Fine (AED) | Approx. Euro |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking in public | up to 5000 | ≈ 1250 € |
| Public drunkenness | up to 5000 + possible jail | ≈ 1250 € |
| Drunk driving (0.0 limit) | Jail + high fines | – |
| Alcohol to minors | at least 2000 | ≈ 500 € |
Important: Tourists can also be arrested if they appear drunk. Always drink in moderation – especially outside hotels.
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Bringing alcohol into Dubai
When entering Dubai, you may bring alcohol – but only within the allowed limits. Alcohol must always be placed in checked luggage, not in hand luggage.
- Allowance: 4 litres of alcohol or 24 cans of beer per person (21+)
- Applies to all nationalities
- Exceeding the limit may result in confiscation or fines
In the airport’s duty-free area (Terminal 1 & 3), there is a wide selection of wine, beer and spirits – often cheaper than in the city.
Alcohol during Ramadan
During the Islamic fasting month Ramadan, special rules apply:
- Bars and restaurants remain open but discreet – often with curtains or darkened windows.
- No alcohol consumption in public during the day.
- After sunset (“Iftar”) normal opening, often without music or dancing.
Clubs & nightlife in Dubai
Dubai has a vibrant nightlife despite the rules. Clubs, lounges and rooftop bars with licenses may serve alcohol. Popular places include:
- Barasti Beach Club – direct beach access with DJ & drinks
- White Dubai – legendary rooftop location
- Soho Garden – stylish club with international crowd
- Zero Gravity – beach club with pool & parties
Entrance usually 21+, ID required. Women often enter for free or get complimentary drinks during “Ladies’ Nights” (usually Wednesdays).
Differences: Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah
The seven emirates have different regulations:
- Dubai: Alcohol allowed in licensed venues, also purchasable for tourists
- Abu Dhabi: similarly liberal, alcohol available in hotels, bars & shops
- Sharjah: strictly Islamic – complete alcohol ban, even for tourists
If you travel between emirates, note: No alcohol transport through Sharjah – not even in the car trunk.
Behaviour tips for tourists
- Drink only in licensed bars or hotels.
- Avoid public consumption – not even a beer at the beach or on the street.
- Do not carry open bottles in your bag or car.
- Never drive after consuming alcohol – not even “just one glass”.
- During Ramadan, avoid alcohol during the day.
Conclusion: Alcohol is allowed – but regulated
Alcohol in Dubai 2025 is not a taboo but part of the tourist offering. Anyone who follows the rules can easily enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail in the evening. Just remember: no public drinking, no drunkenness and no drinking and driving. In hotels and bars, nothing stands in the way of enjoyment – only the prices are higher than in Europe.