Alcohol License in Dubai means the business which serves alcohol. Dubai is a great place to start your dream business, with consumer confidence at an all-time high. However, before launching your business, it is essential to know how to obtain an alcohol license in Dubai, as different rules apply to serving alcohol across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about how to get an alcohol licence in Dubai, including the types of alcohol licenses available, the criteria to obtain them, and the consequences of not having a license.
What is the Alcohol License in Dubai?
An Alcohol License is a legal permit that allows individuals to purchase, transport and consuming alcohol in Dubai. The license is valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
Who needs Alcohol License in Dubai?
Residents who are non-Muslim and over the age of 21 are eligible to apply for an Alcohol License. Tourists and visitors are not eligible for an Alcohol License, and are only permitted to consume alcohol in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars, and restaurants.
How to Get an Alcohol License in Dubai?
Dubai is a lively city, with a thriving nightlife, making it an ideal place to set up a business serving alcohol. However, tourists and residents alike require an alcohol license to purchase alcohol in Dubai unless they are drinking in licensed restaurants, hotels, or bars. Currently, four types of alcohol licenses exist under the Liquor Control Law, subject to change. These are:
Type A: License to import alcohol
Type B: License to sell alcohol from a warehouse or shop to third parties
Type C: License to sell alcohol in a hotel, restaurant, or club
Type D: License to purchase alcohol in Dubai
Types of Alcohol Licenses
If you’re interested in starting a business to serve alcohol, you’ll need a trading license before you can apply for the alcohol license. However, if your business is not a hotel, restaurant, or club, you must check whether you can serve alcohol in Dubai. No general spaces can serve alcohol or hotels, restaurants, and clubs without a license.
Type C Alcohol License Rules
Type C alcohol license is the most popular license for businesses in Dubai that want to serve alcohol. The current license allows you to serve alcohol for immediate consumption at licensed establishments, transport alcohol directly to the licensed establishment, and purchase alcohol from a Type B licensed warehouse. However, you need to follow the rules of the Type C license and the liquor control law. These rules include:
• Serving all alcohol in glasses except wine
• Ensuring alcohol is only consumed on your premises
• Maintaining alcohol stock documentation
• Sticking to the correct permitted operating times, which the government determines
Alcohol License in Dubai Criteria
If you’re not a resident in Dubai, you can apply for a tourist alcohol license, which is free and valid for thirty days, subject to criteria. However, if you’re a resident of Dubai, you need to meet the following criteria:
• Be over 21 years old
• Non-Muslim
• Resident of Dubai
If you’re a resident of another emirate, you’ll need to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your emirate, even if you live in Dubai. Spouse visas also require a NOC certificate.
Is it allowed drinking alcohol openly in UAE?
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it is not allowed to openly drink alcohol in public spaces. However, it is legal to consume alcohol in licensed bars, restaurants, and hotels. These places have special permits to serve alcoholic beverages. It is important to follow the local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption to avoid any legal problems.
What are the steps to get an alcohol license in Dubai
If you’re planning to open a business that serves alcohol in Dubai, it’s important to know the steps to obtain an alcohol license. Here are the general steps you need to follow:
Fill in the online form or visit in-person: You can apply for an alcohol license online or visit the nearest alcohol licensing office to fill out the application form.
Gather the alcohol license Dubai requirements: You will need to prepare the necessary documents, including a copy of your passport and visa, tenancy agreement, No Objection Certificate (NOC), and trade license. You may also need to provide a layout of your premises and a declaration of conformity.
Wait for the license to process: Once you submit your application and the required documents, it can take around two to three weeks for the license to process. You will receive a notification when your license is approved.
Launch your business: Once you have your alcohol license, you can start serving alcohol at your business. Remember to always follow the rules and regulations surrounding the sales and consuming alcohol in Dubai.
Not having a Liquor License in Dubai
Not having an alcohol license can lead to serious consequences in Dubai. It is highly recommended to obtain a license to avoid legal and financial penalties.
The consequences of not having an alcohol license include hefty fines that can escalate with each offense. You may also face imprisonment, visa cancellations, and deportation. These penalties can have a significant impact on your business and personal life.
Therefore, it is crucial to apply for an alcohol licence in Dubai if you plan on serving alcohol. It is important to note that this license only applies to Dubai, and you may need additional permissions if you want to expand your business to other parts of the UAE.
How to renew an Alcohol License in Dubai?
- Visit the MMI or A&E store website and log in to your account using your credentials.
- Navigate to the “Services” section and select “Alcohol License Services.”
- Choose the “Renew Alcohol License” option from the list of services.
- Fill out the online application form with your personal details and upload the necessary documents, including a no-objection certificate from your employer or sponsor and a recent medical examination report.
- Pay the renewal fee using a valid credit or debit card.
- Wait for the application to be processed and approved by the Dubai Police.
- Once approved, you will receive an email or text message notifying you to collect your renewed Alcohol License from a designated police station.
- Visit the police station with your original Valid Emirates ID and collect your renewed Alcohol License.
It is important to note that you must renew your Alcohol License within 30 days of its expiry date. Failure to do so may result in a penalty or cancellation of your license.
How to cancel an Liquor License in Dubai?
To cancel an Alcohol Licence in Dubai, you can follow the below steps:
Visit the MMI or A&E store website and log in to your account using your credentials.
Navigate to the “Services” section and select “Alcohol License Services.”
Choose the “Cancel Alcohol License” option from the list of services.
Fill out the online application form with your personal details and provide the reason for canceling your license.
Upload any required documents, such as a no-objection certificate from your employer or sponsor, if applicable.
Pay any outstanding fines or fees associated with your license.
Submit the application and wait for it to be processed and approved by the Dubai Police.
Once approved, you will receive an email or text message notifying you that your Alcohol License has been canceled.
It is important to note that canceling your Alcohol License may have consequences, such as affecting your visa status or job. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with your employer or sponsor before canceling your license. Additionally, if you have any remaining alcohol in your possession, you must dispose of it properly and in accordance with local regulations.
What are the liquor stores in Dubai?
In Dubai, liquor can only be purchased from licensed stores, which are regulated by the government. Here are some of the well-known liquor stores in Dubai:
- African & Eastern – a popular liquor store chain with multiple locations across Dubai.
- MMI (Maritime and Mercantile International) – another well-known liquor store chain with several outlets across the city.
- Le Clos – a luxury liquor store chain with stores located in Dubai International Airport and the Dubai Mall.
- Park n Shop – a supermarket chain with a dedicated liquor section in most of its stores.
- Spinneys – another supermarket chain with a wide selection of alcohol and a dedicated liquor section in most of its stores.
- Waitrose – a British supermarket chain with a small selection of alcohol in most of its stores.
MMI and African Eastern These stores offer a wide range of alcoholic beverages and cater to the diverse preferences of residents and tourists in Dubai. It is important to note that in Dubai, purchasing alcohol requires a valid Alcohol License, and non-Muslim residents over the age of 21 are allowed to obtain a license for personal consumption. The consumption of alcohol in public places is strictly prohibited in Dubai, and breaking this law can result in fines or even imprisonment. It is also illegal to drive after consuming alcohol in Dubai, and penalties for doing so can be severe.
