Your coach
- Table of contents
- First, get a personal alcohol licence
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Licensed establishments
Gone are the days when you had to travel to other Emirates to find a liquor store. Nowadays, residents and tourists over the age of 21 can buy in-store and online often with same-day home delivery.
First, get a personal alcohol licence
You'll first need to apply for a personal alcohol licence to buy alcohol legally in Dubai. This includes all alcoholic beverages, whether you enjoy beer, cider, wine or liquor.
Fortunately, it's fast and free to apply for a personal alcohol licence. This can usually be done in-store upon presentation of a passport or an Emirates ID card, if you are a resident.
Here are two liquor stores popular with residents and travellers alike:
African + Eastern offers an instant virtual alcohol licence to those who apply in-store. A physical licence card will be ready for collection within weeks. African + Eastern operates 20 stores across Dubai’s residential areas. For more information, visit africaneasterndxb.com.
Maritime and Mercantile International, also known as MMI, runs 21 stores in Dubai’s prime residential neighbourhoods. An application for a personal alcohol licence typically takes between 2 to 3 days for approval, but customers can make an initial purchase immediately. For details, visit mmidubai.com.
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Travellers passing through Dubai International Airport have the option to shop at Le Clos, a duty-free retailer specialising in fine wines and luxury spirits. Their services include concierge delivery upon arrival, complimentary bottle engraving, and a 'click and collect' option. Purchases can be collected on arrival from stores in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 near the Baggage Claim area, or on departure from the store nearest to the departure gate.
Licensed establishments
In Dubai, alcohol is only served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars, and restaurants. While most bars and hotels, particularly those catering to expatriates and tourists, have the necessary licences, this is not always the case with restaurants, even in neighbourhoods popular with tourists.