Similar to other countries in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a predominantly Muslim nation. This implies that it has stringent regulations governing the acquisition and consumption of alcohol. The violation of these laws can result in severe consequences, including imprisonment. To avoid fines or worse, review the key do’s & don’ts first: Dubai rules for tourists. Therefore, it is essential to understand the guidelines for buying and consuming alcohol in Dubai.
First of all, alcohol is not prohibited in Dubai. It is feasible to acquire alcohol in Dubai as both a resident and a tourist. However, this is tightly controlled. If it is the first time that you are going to visit Dubai, you may want to know “Can you buy alcohol in Dubai supermarkets?” Let’s dive into the following parts that indubaimall will tell us more about Dubai supermarket alcohol availability in 2025.
| Topic | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Supermarket Sales | ❌ Not Available: Alcohol is not sold in standard supermarkets, grocery stores, or gas stations in Dubai. |
| Legal Drinking Age in Dubai | 🔞 Age Limit: You must be at least 21 years old to buy or consume alcohol. |
| Where to Buy (Tourists) | 🛂 Requirements: Valid Passport & Entry Visa. 🏪 Stores: African + Eastern and MMI (License is free and instant). ✈️ Duty-Free: Available at Dubai International Airport arrivals (often cheaper). |
| Where to Buy (Residents) | 🆔 Requirements: Emirates ID & Alcohol License. 💳 License Cost: Now free (rules changed Jan 2023). |
Alcohol Availability in Dubai Supermarkets
Does Dubai have alcohol? Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai Supermarkets? Despite being accustomed to purchasing alcohol in supermarkets and grocery stores, this is not the case in the UAE. Alcohol in Dubai supermarkets are not sold. This applies to convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores. You won’t be able to find alcohol here. Alcohol is sold in special liquor stores licensed and controlled by the government, which are licensed and controlled by the government. This is the sole location where it is accessible, with the exception of Duty-Free shops.
How to Legally Purchase Alcohol in Dubai?
Can you buy alcohol in Dubai mall? Is Alcohol Legal in Dubai? You are absolutely welcome to purchase alcohol in Dubai, as long as you are 21 and over. Here is a guide to buying alcohol legally in Dubai in 2025:
Going Out for Drinks
If you intend to go out for drink at a bar such as bar in Dubai Mall, a restaurant, or a nightclub, it is important to take note that liquor is only permitted to be sold in licensed establishments. These locations are typically associated with hotels, thus a multitude of bars and restaurants offering beverages are present throughout the city, particularly in Dubai’s most popular tourist destinations.
Buying Alcohol as a Tourist
You may don’t like to go out for drinking in places such as restaurants serving alcohol in Dubai Mall. If you have entered Dubai on a tourist visa, you are required to present your passport when purchasing alcohol from either MMI or African + Eastern. It is as straightforward as that, and it is completely free. It is not necessary to obtain an alcohol license, however, residents of the UAE are required to obtain one.
Buying Alcohol as a Resident
Residents who possess an Emirates ID will be required to obtain an alcohol license in order to procure alcohol in Dubai. Prior to January 1, 2023, it was necessary to pay an annual fee and present a physical alcohol license when making purchases. However, the regulations have been changed since that time, and you don’t need to pay fee.
Alternatives to Supermarkets for Buying Alcohol
Is alcohol in Dubai allowed? There are two main chains of liquor stores around Dubai: African + Eastern and the MMI Liquor Store. Both of these establishments possess numerous locations throughout Dubai, and it is feasible to locate the nearest location by utilizing Google Maps, a highly recommended travel application. However, in order to procure bottles of alcoholic beverages, a license is required. Non-Muslim tourists who desire to purchase a few bottles of beer, wine, or liquor for personal consumption within their hotel rooms may submit an application for a temporary alcohol license. This license is valid for a duration of thirty days. You can obtain it directly from the liquor store checkout. It includes both African and Eastern liquor stores. You can also buy it from Duty-Free at the airport. However, you can purchase alcohol in Ajman and Umm al Quwain without a license. So the answer to the question of whether it is possible to drink alcohol in a hotel in Dubai is yes. Here’s how you can get a Dubai alcohol license as a tourist:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You are not a resident of Dubai, or anywhere within the UAE.
- It is imperative that you present your original passport and entry visa for Dubai at the liquor store checkout.
- In some cases, you will fill out a form and sign a declaration that you meet the requirements. It also says that you will follow UAE laws and regulations about drinking and buying alcohol.
- The license is issued to you immediately on-site. You then have the freedom to purchase whatever you want.
Airport
Can you buy alcohol in shops in Dubai? As it was said before, there is no alcohol in shops of Dubai. Therefore, you can buy alcohol at the airport in your home country and take it with you to Dubai, or you can buy it when you arrive. It’s your choice! If you fly with Emirates, you can enjoy free alcohol during your flight.
Duty-Free
Can I buy alcohol in Dubai supermarkets? As you cannot buy alcohol in Dubai supermarkets, you can find great and slightly cheaper options for buying alcohol at Dubai International Airport. Just head to the Duty-Free store on the arrivals side, which makes shopping easy right at the airport. For example, 12 cans of 0.33-liter Carlsberg Pilsner are priced at 63 AED, while a single bottle of 0.33-liter imported beer in a regular Dubai store averages around 23.86 AED. If you’re looking for something more upscale, Le Clos is a fantastic choice. Their selection of fine wines and premium spirits is perfect for celebrating special occasions or giving as gifts.
Import
In this area, the importation of alcohol is allowed. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of their stay by bringing a maximum of 4 liters of beer, wine, or other spirits for each adult. With the limit set at 4 liters per person, you will have an ample supply to enjoy during your time here.
