Dubai Drinks: How to Legally Stock Your Home Bar
May 7, 2025
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So, you're heading to Dubai, or maybe you've just moved here, and the question pops up: "How exactly do I buy alcohol?" It's a common query, given the blend of modern city life and local laws. While you can certainly enjoy a drink, buying alcohol for home consumption isn't quite like popping into your local corner shop back home. The rules are specific, but don't worry, they're straightforward once you know them. This guide will walk you through exactly where and how you can legally purchase alcohol in Dubai, based on the official regulations. Let's clear up the confusion.
Can You Buy Alcohol in Dubai Supermarkets? The Clear Answer
Let's get this one out of the way first, as it's a frequent point of confusion. Can you grab a six-pack or a bottle of wine along with your groceries at Carrefour, Lulu, Spinneys, or Choithrams? The answer is a clear and simple no. Standard supermarkets and grocery stores in Dubai are not licensed to sell alcoholic beverages 
[3]
[1]. You won't find beer, wine, or spirits nestled between the soft drinks and snacks in these stores [1]. They simply don't have the required permits for alcohol sales [3][1]. So, save yourself the time searching those aisles!
Where to Legally Buy Alcohol for Home Consumption
Okay, so supermarkets are out. Where can you buy alcohol to enjoy at home? You need to head to specialized, licensed liquor stores [3]
[5][1]
[2]. These are the only places legally permitted to sell alcohol for takeaway consumption in Dubai [3][5][1][2]. The two dominant players in this space are well-known chains: MMI (Maritime and Mercantile International) and African + Eastern [5][2]. You'll often find these stores conveniently located, sometimes right next door to major supermarkets like Spinneys or Waitrose, or within shopping malls – though always as separate, distinct shops [5]. Think locations near Spinneys in Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battuta Mall, along Marina Walk, or on Jumeirah Beach Road [5]. You might also spot smaller licensed outlets like Cellar Saver near Lulu Hypermarket in Karama or The Cellar Door in Nakheel Mall [2]. One tell-tale sign? Their shop windows are usually obscured or blacked out [5].
How Tourists Can Buy Alcohol in Dubai
If you're visiting Dubai as a tourist, buying alcohol is relatively simple, provided you meet the criteria. You must be non-Muslim and at least 21 years old [5][1][2]. When you go to an MMI or African + Eastern store, you'll need to show your original passport which must contain your Dubai entry stamp [5][1]
[4]. This verifies your tourist status and age [5][1][4]. In some cases, the store might issue you a free, temporary 30-day license or permit after checking your passport and asking you to sign a declaration form confirming you understand the rules 
[6][4]. The key thing for tourists is that there's typically no fee involved in this process [1]. Just bring your passport, meet the age and religious requirements, and you should be able to make your purchase [5][1][4].
How Residents Can Buy Alcohol in Dubai
For those living in Dubai as residents, the process is slightly different. Like tourists, you must be non-Muslim and at least 21 years old to purchase alcohol [1][6][2]. However, residents are required to obtain a formal alcohol license to legally buy alcohol from MMI or African + Eastern stores [1][6][2]. Here's some good news: since January 1, 2023, getting this resident alcohol license is completely free of charge [6][1]. To apply, you simply need to visit an MMI or African + Eastern store and use your Emirates ID [6][1]. Keep in mind that the approval process for the resident license usually takes several weeks, so plan accordingly [6][4]. It's also worth noting a legal nuance introduced in late 2020: while you still need the license to buy and possess alcohol, the act of consuming alcohol without a license in authorized private places (like your home) or licensed venues (like hotels and bars) was decriminalized [6]. However, to purchase from the store, the license remains mandatory for residents [1][6][2].
Other Legal Ways to Obtain Alcohol
Besides the licensed MMI and African + Eastern stores, there are a couple of other legal avenues for obtaining alcohol in Dubai. Many travelers take advantage of the Dubai Duty Free shops located in the arrival halls at the airport [1][6]. You can purchase a certain allowance of alcohol here right after landing, before even leaving the airport [1][6]. Additionally, numerous hotels, clubs, bars, and restaurants throughout Dubai are licensed to serve alcohol [5][1][6]. However, this alcohol is strictly for consumption on their premises only – you can't buy a bottle at a hotel bar to take away with you [5][1][6]. These venues provide options for enjoying a drink while out and about.
Crucial Rules: Where You CANNOT Drink
Knowing where to buy alcohol is only half the story; knowing where you can legally consume it is just as critical. Dubai has very strict rules regarding alcohol consumption locations. Drinking alcohol in any public place is strictly prohibited and illegal [5][6][2]. This includes beaches, parks, streets, and even common areas of apartment buildings. Similarly, being intoxicated in public is also a serious offense under UAE law [5]. So, where can you drink? Consumption is legally restricted to two types of locations: the privacy of your own home (or a friend's home, with their permission) or within the confines of a licensed venue like a hotel bar, club, or restaurant [5][2]. Respecting these laws is essential to avoid any legal trouble during your time in Dubai.
Quick Summary: Key Rules at a Glance
Feeling a bit overwhelmed? Here’s a quick recap of the essential rules for buying and consuming alcohol in Dubai:
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