Dubai, the city filled with bling, glitter, and surreal skyscrapers, is among the cities that have confounded travelers and people who live in that place with its new and stricter rules and regulations. Usually, the first and foremost question that people who intend to travel to Dubai ask is Is drinking alcohol illegal here? This issue is a cause of anxiety and for some even stress. Let’s talk about what this rule is about – the law for drinking alcohol in Dubai.
For the party lovers, the crown of Dubai peeps is the city’s never-ending party scene. It is closely followed by Dubai’s multi-race drinks branches. To this extent, numerous questing travelers do not recognize that the UAE is in good health in the Middle East and follows the Sharia law limiting human rights, including alcohol. But, the brunch is boozy and there are a lot of bar stations spread out around the place to help with your cocktails so remember to drink safely.
IS IT AGAINST THE LAW TO DRINK IN DUBAI?
Sharia law
Within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) which is a country under the Islamic law (Sharia law) rules one of the seven emirates is Dubai. However, the Sharia law prohibits alcohol consumption by Muslims for Muslims while non-Muslims are allowed to drink it within certain calibrations and in licensed venues.
Drinking Laws in Dubai for Tourists
Anyone who desires to drink alcohol in Dubai must be at the age of 21. you must have ID proof for emergency needs. Not only selling alcohol to a person under the legal drinking age of 21 but also the one who violates the law must be punished according to Dubai laws.
Dubai Drinking laws
If you are 21 and older, you can legally drink alcohol in Dubai, an expat or holidaymaker. But, you need to buy the alcohol from a licensed premises, which could be a shop, and enjoy the taste of the drink in the comfort of your room. On the other hand, there are lots of licensed venues such as restaurants, hotels, etc. that serve alcohol to individuals aged 21 years and above. If you can come across some shops and venues with a ‘dry’ indication. Therefore, this means they are not allowed to sell alcohol.
Is prohibited to drink in the streets of Dubai or to be drunk in public. This is a crime under UAE laws. In fairness, behavior that might be considered to be related to being drunk, such as rude gestures, swearing, and public show of affection will carry the same consequences if the culprit is found.
The city of Dubai has no tolerance for underage drinking, public drunkenness, and drunk driving. Consequently, if you are consuming alcohol whilst out it is advisable to have a limit to it.
License to drink in UAE
In Dubai, the supply and demand of alcohol is controlled by the issuance of alcohol licenses. Hotels, restaurants, and bars would be made to have a license to serve alcohol to their consumers. Otherwise, the people who are interested in the purchase of alcohol for personal use must approach authorities to obtain a personal alcohol license from them.
Drinking alcohol in most emirates is legal and the visitors to these emirates can drink at restaurants and bars for a long time. Non-Muslim residents of non-citizen nationality were allowed to buy alcohol with a special license, but needed to carry it with them all the time in case they wanted to drink on the sideline of a bar.
But, all Emirates with different legal systems are governed under the overall laws of the UAE. This shows that Sharjah is forever a ‘dry emirate’, as no alcohol is permitted even in international hotels. However, the need to have a liquor license in Ajman has never been a prerequisite for getting access to alcoholic beverages. Besides, if you live in Dubai, you would buy the alcohol in Ajman and would not dare to pour through Sharjah with it.
Can We Drink While Traveling?
When you travel across Dubai, it is imperative to keep in mind the local rules and regulations regarding alcohol consumption. In Dubai, drinking alcohol in public spaces outside licensed establishments is strictly and strictly prohibited. This means that it covers the situation when drinking alcohol in public transport, e.g., buses, metro, or taxis, for instance.
Nevertheless, you are allowed to take alcoholic beverages in some licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants, bars, and clubs that have the license to sell alcohol to their clients. Make sure to drink responsibly and within the confines of the law if you decide to drink when traveling. It is recommended that tourists have an idea about the local rules and traditions of Dubai beforehand to avoid any legal problems and enjoy a comfortable and smooth travel.
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Penalties for Drinking and Driving
Drinking and driving is considered to be a highly criminal charge in the case of Dubai, as it is with many of the other countries. The authorities have laws and controls with regular check-ups to catch the offenders. Such individuals unfortunately may be given huge fines, jailed, or deported if the probe and charges are proven.
Conclusion
Well, as such, is it illegal to drink alcohol in Dubai? The answer is nuanced. From licensed venues to private gatherings, non-Muslims are allowed to consume alcohol. However, it is a must to abide by the rules and regulations laid down by the authorities. The appreciation and adherence to the local customs and laws allow the visitors and settlement dwellers to go about their social activities safely and responsibly. Don’t forget that Dubai is a city that offers lively and diverse nightlife, with many venues for people who want to enjoy some drinks. Nevertheless, it should be done carefully and inside according to the law so as not to violate the law. At last, Dubai’s regulations on alcohol consumption are intended to satisfy the demand for non-Muslims to enjoy their drinks moderately in preservation of the cultural and religious values of the region. We, as visitors and residents, should take pride in learning about these laws and play our part in maintaining a pleasant and unspoiled atmosphere in this wonderful tow