Drinking Age in Dubai – Things you should know!

Dubai is the perfect example of a cosmopolitan city. People from over a hundred nations stay and work here. Also, millions visit Dubai every year. It’s a tourism hotspot. Shopping, natural beauty, a wide range of indoor activities – the attractions are many for tourists. And almost all major hotel and restaurant chains of the world have set up shops in Dubai.

However, there is one question in the minds of many tourists and prospective expatriates to Dubai. And that is – is alcohol available in Dubai? And if yes, then what is the legal drinking age there?

Availability of Alcohol in Dubai?

Dubai is an Islamic country. While it is a fairly permissive and progressive emirate, in certain matters the rules are quite strict. And alcohol consumption is one of them. Resident non-Muslims and non-Muslim tourists can consume alcohol in designated bars and hotels. They can also buy alcohol from specific shops after displaying an alcohol license. However, Muslims aren’t allowed to buy or consume alcohol in Dubai.

What is The Legal Drinking Age in Dubai?

For both residents and tourists, the legal drinking age in Dubai is 21 years. And this is strictly enforced. At any hotel, you can expect to produce your valid age-proof document upon asking. The staff members or the bouncers are well within their rights to ask for it. So, do be sure to carry this document with you when you go for a drink.

Be Cautious, Though!

You might have been told by someone you know who has visited Dubai earlier that if you look older than 21 while being younger, then you can go and buy a drink at a hotel. While this might have been the case, it would be better if you don’t taken the risk. Because if it’s discovered that you are underage but buying alcohol, you can face very serious consequences, like getting jailed or deported. The laws are enforced very strictly in Dubai. So, if you or anyone who’s with you is less than 21, it’s safer to stick to non-alcoholic beverages while in Dubai.