All About Liquor license in Dubai Abu Dhabi – Fees, Process and Requirements

September 08, 2019

Understanding alcohol regulations in the UAE

The UAE is a Muslim country where alcohol consumption and sale are strictly regulated. However, recognizing the needs of its large expatriate population and tourism industry, the government permits alcohol purchase and consumption under specific conditions. Since 2020, UAE federal law allows individual emirates to apply their own local regulations regarding alcohol.

Source: Gulf News – November 2024

Dubai personal liquor license 2025

Do you need a license in Dubai?

In Dubai, residents need an alcohol license to purchase alcohol from stores and transport it to private locations like their home. The license also allows them to consume alcohol at home and store it. However, you do not need a license to consume alcohol at licensed restaurants, bars, or hotels.

Source: Dubai Online – April 2023

Major 2025 updates

Effective from January 1, 2023, liquor licenses in Dubai are completely free. Previously, there was a fee of AED 270 per year. The Dubai Municipality has reinstated the 30% tax on liquor from January 1, 2025.

Eligibility requirements

• Must be at least 21 years old
• Must be non-Muslim
• Valid Emirates ID required for residents
• Valid passport required for tourists

Source: African + Eastern Official

Application process for residents

Visit an establishment licensed to sell alcohol (MMI or African + Eastern) and apply for your license. Present your Emirates ID to apply. Once the application has been submitted, you can immediately purchase alcohol. The license is issued in two to four weeks and is valid for 12 months.

You can also apply online at licensedxb.com by entering your personal details and Emirates ID number.

Sources: Gulf News – November 2024 | Best Bites UAE

Tourist licenses

Tourists can present their original passports at any African + Eastern or MMI store to purchase alcohol. Tourists are immediately issued a temporary license, which is valid for 30 days. There is no fee for tourist liquor licenses.

License renewal

Renewals can be done at the same location where the license was issued, either MMI or African + Eastern. The renewal process is simple and does not involve any fee. Applicants must present their Emirates ID, and their license will be updated accordingly.

Where to buy alcohol in Dubai

There are a limited number of licensed shops in Dubai that are allowed to sell alcohol:

• Maritime and Mercantile International (MMI): Wide selection of wines, beers and spirits
• African + Eastern: Known for its extensive wine selection and variety of alcoholic beverages
• The Cellar Door: Offers exclusive wines and spirits

Abu Dhabi liquor license 2025

Do you need a license in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi residents are not required to possess an alcohol license to purchase or consume alcohol. You don’t need an alcohol license in Abu Dhabi as a resident or a tourist.

However, buyers must still be 21 years old and present proper identification when purchasing alcohol.

Age and eligibility

• Minimum age: 21 years old
• Must present valid Emirates ID (residents) or passport (tourists)
• No minimum salary requirement
• 30% tax applies to alcohol purchases

Where to buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi

Once you have proper identification, you can buy liquor from:

• Spinneys: More than 8 stores across Abu Dhabi
• African + Eastern: 9 stores across the city
• Gary Mackenzie & Partners: Various locations

New quality standards 2025

The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism introduced strict new specifications for the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages in October 2024. Key requirements include:

• Alcohol products must be free from pathogenic microorganisms and toxic alcohols
• Wine must not have any vinegar smell or taste
• Total sulfur dioxide concentration must not exceed 400 mg/l

Business alcohol licenses

Types of business licenses

For businesses in Dubai, there are several types of alcohol licenses:

Type A license: Allows businesses to import alcohol into the UAE

Type B license: Permits wholesale distribution

Type C license: Allows restaurants, bars, hotels to serve alcohol

Business license costs (Dubai)

Hotels and restaurants:

• Regular license: AED 6,500 per year
• Elite license: AED 7,500 per year

Clubs, pubs, and bars:

• Special license: AED 7,500 per year (allows serving until 3 AM)

These licenses are valid for one year and issued by Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Business license application process

To apply for a business alcohol license in Dubai:

1. Prepare complete application package for DTCM
2. Submit required documents (trade license, NOC, business plan)
3. Pay the applicable license fee
4. Allow for premises inspection if required
5. Wait for approval (typically 2-4 weeks)
6. Display license at premises once approved

The business must not be located within 30 meters of a mosque or school, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Dubai Municipality may be required.

Important rules and regulations

General consumption rules

• Consumption of alcohol is only permitted from age 21
• Drinking in public places is strictly prohibited
• Alcohol may only be consumed in licensed establishments or private residences
• Zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving

Ramadan restrictions

During Ramadan and other religious holidays, special consideration is required. Most restaurants and bars are not allowed to serve alcohol during fasting hours in licensed establishments. You can only consume alcohol after sunset, though this rule may vary from establishment to establishment.

Import regulations

The private import of alcohol into Dubai is strictly regulated. If you wish to import alcohol:

• Import is limited to a certain quantity (normally very small)
• You need an import license from the competent authority
• Imported alcohol may be subject to high customs duties and taxes
• During Ramadan, imports may be subject to stricter restrictions

Penalties and violations

The UAE enforces zero tolerance towards drunk driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol is punished with severe penalties, including:

• Fines up to AED 100,000
• Imprisonment
• Deportation

Anyone found consuming alcohol in a place not licensed to serve it, or caught in public while drunk and causing a disturbance, faces a minimum fine of AED 2,000.

Dubai vs Abu Dhabi comparison

Frequently asked questions

Can tourists buy alcohol without a license?

In Dubai, tourists can get an immediate 30-day temporary license by presenting their passport at licensed stores. In Abu Dhabi, no license is required – tourists just need to show their passport and be 21+.

How long does it take to get a license?

In Dubai, residents can purchase immediately after applying. The physical license card takes 2-4 weeks to process. Tourists receive instant authorization.

Can you drink at restaurants without a license?

Yes, in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you can consume alcohol at licensed restaurants, bars, and hotels without needing a personal liquor license.

What happens if you’re caught without a license?

In Dubai, buying, transporting, storing, and consuming alcohol without a valid license is an offense and can result in fines and legal consequences.

Closing

The UAE has made significant progress in modernizing its alcohol regulations, particularly with Dubai’s elimination of license fees in 2023 and Abu Dhabi’s license-free policy. Whether you’re a resident planning to purchase alcohol for home consumption or a business owner looking to serve alcohol legally, understanding and complying with local regulations ensures a smooth and legal experience.

For assistance with business setup in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, including guidance on obtaining commercial alcohol licenses for restaurants, bars, or hotels, contact Setup Dubai Business for expert consultation.