How to Apply for a Free Alcohol Licence in Dubai
Alcohol licences in Dubai are free from January 1, 2023. Here is an easy guide on how UAE residents and visitors can get an alcohol licence
1 January 2023
Wondering how to get a liquor license in Dubai?
With the Dubai Municipality removing the 30% sales tax on alcohol, buying liquor in restaurants, bars, pubs, hotels, and licensed stores will be even more affordable.
Licensed liquor stores MMI and African + Eastern have already confirmed that they will also be excluding the 30% tax from their alcohol products moving forward. However, to legally purchase alcohol in Dubai liquor stores, you will first need a valid alcohol licence.
Dubai alcohol licences are free to apply for starting from Sunday, January 1, 2023.
Previously, non-Muslims interested in applying for an alcohol licence in Dubai had to pay AED 270 per year. In 2020, UAE officials relaxed its alcohol laws, allowing residents to buy and consume beverages in restaurants, bars and hotels without an alcohol licence.
How to apply for a Dubai alcohol licence?
In order to purchase alcohol from liquor stores in Dubai, both UAE expat residents and visitors will need a valid alcohol licence. Here's how to get yours!
What are the requirements to apply for an alcohol licence in Dubai?
UAE residents will only need their Emirates ID to apply for a Dubai alcohol licence.
Visiting tourists will be required to present their passports with a valid Dubai entry stamp to apply for a 30-day alcohol licence, which is given instantly. The instant 30-day alcohol licence is not available to UAE residents.
Where can I apply for a Dubai alcohol licence?
To apply for an alcohol licence in Dubai, head to any MMI or African + Eastern store in Dubai and a staff member will help process your application.
There are more than 7 MMI branches in Dubai, and over 15 African + Eastern shops in the emirate.
How long does it take to process?
Alcohol licence applications usually takes four weeks.
Do I need an alcohol licence to buy and drink alcohol in Dubai bars, restaurants, and hotels?
No, you do not need an alcohol licence to buy and consume alcohol in Dubai dining spots. Only customers who are aged 21 years old and above can legally purchase and drink alcohol in bars, restaurants and hotels. Depending on the person, you may be asked to present a valid ID as proof of your age.
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