Everything You Need To Know About Abu Dhabi’s Alcohol Rules: No License, 30% Tax, Age Limit

Abu Dhabi has a lot to offer, and one of the things that the Emirate is famous for is its thriving nightlife. With a large non-Muslim population and a booming tourism industry, there are plenty of options for those who want to purchase and consume alcohol. Whether you are an expat or a tourist, you can easily find alcohol in licensed entertainment and F&B establishments or at one of the many alcohol stores available.

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1. Alcohol license

The good news is that you don’t need an alcohol license to enjoy a drink in Abu Dhabi. As long as you are over the age of 21 and a non-Muslim expat, you can purchase and consume alcohol without any hassle. However, there are some criteria that you need to meet before you can enjoy your drink. Please note, a 30% tax is applicable on the purchase of alcohol.

2. Places where you can buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi:

These include Spinneys, Windmill Cellar, Eurostar Cellars, African+Eastern (A+E), Abu Dhabi International Airport Duty Free, MMI, and High Spirits Cellar.

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3. Can I carry alcohol into Abu Dhabi?

If you are traveling to Abu Dhabi, you can also bring alcohol with you. Each traveler is allowed to bring four liters of alcohol or one carton/24 cans of beer. You can also bring AED 2,000 worth of cigarettes or 400 sticks of cigarettes, AED 3,000 worth of gifts (including perfume), AED3,000 worth of cigars, and 2 kilograms of tobacco.

4. New alcohol specifications in Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism has announced new specifications for the sale and distribution of alcohol, which must be met within six months. These specifications aim to ensure that all types of alcoholic beverage products meet certain requirements, such as being free of pathogenic microorganisms and toxic alcohols.

The rules for wine and beer are also strict. Wine should be free from vinegar smell and taste, and the maximum concentration of total sulfur dioxide should not exceed 400 mg/l. Beer should be free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colorants, except for caramel. The concentration of diacetyl should not exceed 0.2 mg/L.

When it comes to the production, packaging, transport, and storage of alcohol, there are certain rules that must be followed. For example, the product must be produced as per the UAE/GSO 1694: General Principles of Food Hygiene, and the packaging materials used must be in conformity with the relevant UAE specifications.

Abu Dhabi has made it easy for non-Muslim expats and tourists to purchase and consume alcohol. With licensed entertainment and F&B establishments and alcohol stores available, you can easily find your drink of choice. While there are certain criteria that you need to meet, the rules are straightforward and easy to follow. So, go ahead and enjoy your drink in Abu Dhabi!

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