In some good news for expats in Dubai, from this new year, the Emirates has made it easier to legally buy liquor there.
From January 1, 2023, personal liquor licences will be free-to-obtain for those eligible to legally purchase alcoholic beverages in Dubai. A valid Emirates ID, or Passport for tourists, will still be required to apply.
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30% tax on liquor sales suspended
Another major change that has come into force is the scrapping of the 30 per cent tax on alcohol sales.
The announcement was made by Dubai’s two state-linked alcohol retailers apparently further boost its tourism to the emirate.
Alcohol distributor Maritime and Mercantile International, which is part of the wider Emirates Group, made the announcement in a statement.
“Since we began our operations in Dubai over 100 years ago, the emirate’s approach has remained dynamic, sensitive and inclusive for all,” said Tyrone Reid of MMI. “These recently updated regulations are instrumental to continue ensuring the safe and responsible purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages in Dubai and the UAE.”
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No more travel to other emirates for tax-free alcohol
Dubai residents long have driven into Umm al-Quwain and other emirates for bulk, tax-free alcohol purchases.
African & Eastern, the second alcohol retailer believed to be at least partially held by the state or affiliated firms, also announced the end of the municipality tax and license fees.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the oil-rich UAE, ended its alcohol license system in September 2020.
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Liquor consumption rules in Dubai
Under Dubai law, non-Muslims must be 21 or older to consume alcohol. Drinkers are supposed to carry plastic cards issued by the Dubai police that permit them to purchase, transport and consume beer, wine and liquor. Otherwise, they can face fines and arrest — even though the sheikhdom’s vast network of bars, nightclubs and lounges almost never ask to see the permit.
Dubai and the UAE, like other countries in the region which are heavily dependent on oil-revenue, have been taking some bold steps to diversify their income sources as their natural resources are fast running out.
Relaxing rules to attract tourists
Most of them including UAE and Qatar have been betting on tourism and have been going out of their way to attract tourists from across the world.
This includes the relaxation of the strict rule on liquor consumption and even gambling.
In November, Hotel and casino operator Wynn Resorts had announced that it will open Middle East’s first casino at the luxury resort it is building in Ras Al Khaimah.
Wynn Resorts Chief Executive Craig Scott Billings said that the casino on the man-made island will be bigger than that in Las Vegas.
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