Dubai Alcohol Rules 2025: What You Must Know Before You Drink

If you’re planning a night out in Dubai, the first thing you need to sort out is the local alcohol rules. The city is famous for its glitzy clubs, sky‑high bars, and luxury hotels, but the UAE still has strict regulations. Knowing the basics can keep your night fun and fine‑free.

Age Limits and Licensing

In Dubai you must be at least 21 years old to buy or consume alcohol legally. This is higher than many countries, so always carry a valid ID – a passport works best for tourists. Alcohol is sold only in licensed venues like hotel bars, private clubs, and a handful of liquor stores that require a personal alcohol licence. If you don’t have that licence, you can still drink at any hotel or restaurant that holds a liquor licence, but buying a bottle for home use is off‑limits unless you’re a resident with the proper permit.

Most upscale hotels have multiple bars and even poolside lounges that serve drinks after sunset. When you’re inside a licensed venue, the staff will check your age, so no need to worry about hidden restrictions. Outside those places, public consumption is illegal – you’ll get a fine or even a short jail term for drinking on the street.

The 6‑Drink Rule & Ramadan Adjustments

The UAE introduced a “6‑drink rule” to curb excessive drinking. It means you can’t order more than six standard drinks in one sitting at a licensed venue. A standard drink is roughly one 330 ml beer, a 150 ml glass of wine, or a single shot of spirits. If you push beyond that, the bar can refuse service and you may face a fine.

Ramadan brings extra changes. During the holy month, alcohol service is usually halted between sunrise and sunset, and many venues close their bars completely during daylight hours. Some hotels keep a discreet lounge that serves alcohol after sunset, but the atmosphere is more low‑key. Once Ramadan ends, the normal rules snap back into place.

For escorts or anyone working in the nightlife scene, respecting these limits is crucial. Not only does it keep you out of legal trouble, it also protects your reputation with clients who expect professionalism.

Where to buy? If you’re a resident with an alcohol licence, you can shop at licensed liquor stores like African + Eastern or MMI. Tourists should stick to hotel mini‑bars or order at the bar. Trying to purchase a bottle from a supermarket will get you turned away, and attempting to bring alcohol into the country at the airport can result in confiscation.

Penalties are clear: a first‑time offense for drinking in public or buying without a licence usually results in a AED 2,000 fine and a warning. Repeat offenses can lead to higher fines, a court appearance, or even a short prison term. The authorities use cameras and random checks, so it’s not worth testing the limits.

Quick tip: if you’re unsure about a venue’s licence status, ask the staff or look for the official Dubai Tourism seal on the entrance. Most reputable hotels list their liquor licence number on the bar menu.

Bottom line? Stay over 21, respect the 6‑drink cap, keep a licence handy if you plan to buy off‑premise, and adjust your plans during Ramadan. Follow these simple rules, and you’ll enjoy Dubai’s nightlife without a hitch.