As foreign expatriates or visitors in the UAE, it is essential to respect the emirates’ mainly Muslim culture and its Sharia law. In Abu Dhabi’s Arab Muslim community, strictly adhering to customs and laws can help avoid severe penalties and jail time. Is alcohol legal in Abu Dhabi? Although as a non-Muslim, you can purchase alcohol in what are known as “liquor shops,” just like in other parts of the world, but it’s crucial to understand the local regulations. In this blog on indubaimall, there are quick insights on the illegalities surrounding alcohol, the rules to follow and those to avoid in Abu Dhabi.
Who Can Legally Drink Alcohol?
Is alcohol in Dubai allowed? Subsequently, is alcohol legal in Abu Dhabi? On November 7, 2020, federal laws changed to decriminalize alcohol consumption nationwide, provided you are over 21 and drinking either privately or in licensed establishments. Non-Muslim expatriates in Abu Dhabi can buy alcohol from special stores if they obtain an alcohol license. If you have a resident visa, are over 21 years old, earn a minimum of 3,000 AED each month, and are not a Muslim, you can apply for an alcohol license. This license allows you to purchase alcohol from authorized stores. These stores are discreetly marked and can be found throughout the city, making them easy to locate on Google Maps.
Permitted Places for Alcohol Consumption
Is alcohol legal in Abu Dhabi for tourists? Can you drink alcohol in Abu Dhabi hotels? Most hotels in Abu Dhabi offer alcohol at their bars or restaurants such as restaurants serving alcohol in Dubai Mall. Only a few are labeled as “dry” or “Family” and do not have a bar available – if this matters to you, make sure to verify the information before reserving a hotel in Abu Dhabi. Clubs, that are including sporting clubs, golf clubs, and specially designed entertainment venues close to hotels or beach clubs, have licenses to serve alcohol and act as entertainment centers throughout the city. Alcohol bought must be consumed on the premises. Where to buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi? You can also apply for the license at specific shops such as Spinneys, High Spirits, GMP, and African & Eastern, or you can do it online via the Government portal. Make sure to have copies of your passport, Visa, and Emirates ID (you don’t need a tenancy agreement, labor contract, or salary certificate anymore), along with passport photos and a 270 AED application fee. The alcohol available in these stores is subject to a significant tax of 30% in addition to the import duty already paid by the supplier. If you are aged 18 to 21 and are with friends or family in a private place, it is legal and permitted to consume alcohol.
Restricted Areas and Prohibited Behavior
Abu Dhabi allows alcohol consumption, but only in strict conditions and in some places like the where Dubai restaurants serving Alcohol. Abu Dhabi drinking age is 21. If you are a non-Muslim adult aged 21 or older, make sure to drink in licensed places or at home. In order to know better about alcohol regulation in Abu Dhabi, let’s explore the following restricted areas and prohibited behavior:
Strictly Prohibited Public Areas
In the UAE, particularly in Abu Dhabi, both tourists and residents are prohibited from drinking in public areas such as streets, parks, beaches, public squares, and anywhere outside licensed venues. Alcohol should not lead to any violent behavior. Although some rules may not be clearly posted, it is important to show respect for the local culture. You might not see any signs that ban alcohol consumption. Actions such as being openly intoxicated in public can also lead to penalties.
Drunk Driving: Zero Tolerance Policy
Abu Dhabi has a strict zero-tolerance policy, which means the legal blood alcohol limit is nearly zero. Police perform random checks, and even a small amount of alcohol can result in immediate arrest. 9.2 This strict approach shows the country’s dedication to road safety. Any amount of alcohol is against the law and comes with serious consequences. These consequences usually involve:
- Large fines (usually over AED 20,000; some reports mention over AED 25,000),
- Imprisonment
- Suspension of driving license, towing of the vehicle, and potential deportation for expatriates.
Prohibited Behavior
It is not permitted to walk outside with a drink, nor to be drunk in public. Although many taxi drivers are accustomed to transporting intoxicated passengers after brunch or during the night, it is advisable to stay sober and behave well, as some drivers have reported very drunk party-goers to the police.
