Dubai is a multicultural society with individuals belonging to different cultural backgrounds and religions. People traveling to the city as entrepreneurs and travelers. Dubai is extremely lenient in regards to its liquor laws considering that it is a part of an Islamic nation. Regardless of whether you are a tourist or a resident, you need an alcohol license to sell any kind of alcoholic beverage in Dubai.
1. Alcohol license requirements in Dubai
If you are residing in Dubai or plan to start a liquor-selling business in Dubai, you need a license. The important criteria to be fulfilled to apply for a license include:
- Dubai resident
- Non-muslim
- you are 21 years or older
If you are on a spousal visa, remember to get a No Objection Certificate from your partner before you apply for the license. The same applies if you are a native of an emirate other than Dubai. You will be required to produce a NOC in that case too.
2. Tourists and alcohol license
If you are a tourist and are only planning to consume alcohol in bars or restaurants, make sure that the place you choose has an alcohol license. But if you wish to purchase alcohol in Dubai and drink it where you are staying, you need to apply for an instant license. This license will have a validity of 30 days. You just need to show your Dubai entry stamp and your passport to get the license. Residents of Dubai cannot apply using this option.
3. Alcohol license – different types
Having an understanding of the various kinds of alcohol licenses available in Dubai will help you choose the one most suitable for you. The four kinds of alcohol licenses available include:
- Type A: Permission for importing liquor
- Type B: Permission to sell liquor from a shop or warehouse to external parties
- Type C: Permission for alcohol sales in a restaurant, club or hotel
- Type D: Permission to buy alcoholic beverages
If your aim for applying for an alcohol license is to start a liquor serving business, apply for a trading license first.
4. Getting an alcohol license: Step-by-step procedure
The different steps involved in getting an alcohol license include:
- Submitting the application form
You can complete this step online or by visiting the store in person. Head to an MMI (Maritime Mercantile International) or African + Eastern shop to submit the application. You should carry your Emirates ID with you. If you are unable to go in person, you can fill out and submit the form through their online portal. You can also obtain the license at a bar or restaurant within a hotel or at the Dubai International Airport.
- Gather the required documents for the license
The entire process of applying for a license is quite simple. You will need some documents like passport-size photos, a photocopy of the Emirates ID, a photocopy of the passport and a photocopy of the visa. Once all the supporting documents are submitted, your application will be sent for verification by the Dubai Police. The license costs about 270 AED per year. There is also an option for providing additional information, like the tenancy contract. Have information about your company readily available, including information about your location and any partnerships you may have.
- Wait till the license is processed
After completing and submitting the application, you must wait while the store processes the request. This may take around two or four weeks. The Dubai police department is also involved in the processing of requests for an alcohol license. After the request is processed and they decide to offer you the license, they will get in touch with you.
After you get your license, you can purchase and store liquor at your place of stay. The license will also allow you to start a liquor business in Dubai.
What happens if you do not have a liquor license
Handling alcohol without a license is a serious offense in Dubai. It can result in significant fines that increase each time you are caught in violation. You also run the risk of being imprisoned, having your visa revoked or even being deported. It is also crucial to remember that this license will be valid only in Dubai. If you wish to grow your alcohol business in other regions of the UAE, you might require other permits.
It is also important to remember that even if you have an alcohol license with you, you cannot consume alcoholic beverages in public areas like beaches or parks. It only allows you to buy and sell alcohol and store it in your home.