Liquor or Alcohol License in Dubai – How to Apply & More
Alcohol consumption in Dubai is legal for non-Muslims, however, you need to have a valid alcohol license to purchase and consume. If you want to sell alcohol in Dubai then you have to follow certain rules & regulations.
Having an alcohol license in Dubai provides legal protection and ensures that they are purchasing alcohol from licensed outlets. Taking a License also indicates responsible drinking by limiting the amount of alcohol an individual can purchase at one time and per month.
In this article, we will share with you the requirements for getting a liquor license in Dubai. Let’s dive in!
Types of Liquor Licenses in Dubai
Before you understand the requirements for getting an Alcohol license, you need to know that there are 4 Types of Liquor Licenses in Dubai,
Type A: Import license
As the name suggests this is just Import License, meaning you will be able to import alcohol to Dubai from other countries.
Type B: Selling from a shop or warehouse
This license is issued to establishments that wish to sell alcohol for consumption off their premises, such as liquor stores or supermarkets. It is subject to strict regulations and requirements, including obtaining a trade license, approval from the municipality, and meeting specific storage and transportation conditions.
Type C: Serving license (in hotels, clubs, or restaurants)
This license allows hotels, restaurants, and bars to serve alcohol to their customers. This license is issued by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and requires you to comply with regulations and conditions, such as having a designated area for serving alcohol and employing licensed bartenders.
Type C: Purchase license for Individuals
This license allows individuals who are non-Muslim and over the age of 21 to purchase and consume alcohol in Dubai. This license can be acquired for FREE of Cost.
Free Liquor License for Buying Alcohol in Dubai
As of January 01, 2023, residents and tourists in Dubai can apply for a free liquor license, which is required to purchase alcohol from authorized outlets.
To apply, individuals must be non-Muslim and over the age of 21, and for residents, a valid Emirates ID is required while tourists can submit their passports. The license is valid for one year for residents and 30 days for tourists.
The application process can be completed by visiting any of the 21 branches of MMI or 20 branches of African + Eastern or online through legalhomedelivery.com.
This initiative aims to promote responsible drinking and provide a legal and regulated way for individuals to purchase and consume alcohol in Dubai.
Why do you need an alcohol license in Dubai for Selling?
Alcohol trading in Dubai is normal like any other trading. Although there are strict rules and guidelines for alcohol consumption, you can still apply for Alcohol License in Dubai by simply following the rules & submitting the relevant documents.
Changes to the Alcohol License Permit in Dubai in 2023
Before Jan 01, 2023, the requirement for an Alcohol license is as follows:
- The basic Salary of the applicant must be AED 3000
- For spouses, they need to get a NOC from their partner
- Should be Non- Muslim & above 21 years of age
- Copy of a tenancy Contract
- If you do not have a spouse, you need to get NOC from the employer
After Jan 01, 2023, the requirements for an Alcohol License are liberal:
- Free License for the applicant
- Applicant must be above 21 years of age & Non-Muslim
- No Basic Salary
- No NOC
- Non-Tenancy Contract
However, if you want to sell alcohol, then you have to apply for additional permissions from DED and Dubai Police General Headquarters.
Now, let’s take a look into how you can apply for an alcohol license in Dubai for selling through authorized distributors.
How to apply for an alcohol license in Dubai?
Step-by-step guide for obtaining an alcohol license:
- Apply for an Alcohol License with Dubai Police General Headquarters (DPGH) by filling out the application Form.
- Apply for a Commercial License with DED for Alcohol trading
- Submit required documents
- Pay the fee online
- Get the required approvals
- License will be delivered to your address.
Required documents for the application process
- Copy of your Passport & Visa
- Emirates ID copy
- Tenancy Contract
- Passport Size Photo
- Warehouse or shop layout and approvals
Information about fees & Approvals:
- For Type A & Type B licenses, you will have to get approval from the Customs Department and comply with their rules and regulations.
- For a Type C license, you may also need to obtain approval from the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
- For a Type D license, you just need an Emirates ID and can apply for Free.
Here, you need to note that, the license cost varies from Location and other internal approvals involved.
How long does it take to receive an alcohol license in Dubai?
For commercial purposes, you can expect your Alcohol license to be approved and delivered within 2-4 weeks. For Individuals, the License will be issued within an hour.
Important Reminders for Alcohol Consumption in Dubai
- You must have a valid liquor license to purchase alcohol from licensed shops or warehouses
- Have to consume alcohol only in private or in licensed public places such as hotels, clubs, or restaurants
- You must not drink alcohol in public places such as streets, parks, beaches, or malls
- You must not drink and drive as the legal blood alcohol limit is zero
- You must not carry open bottles or cans of alcohol in your car or on public transport
- You must not be intoxicated or cause any disturbance or nuisance under the influence of alcohol
- You must respect the local culture and religion and avoid drinking alcohol during certain religious occasions or public holidays.
FAQs
1. Do I need a personal alcohol license to purchase or consume alcohol in Dubai?
A. Yes, you do. According to the new regulations in 2023, a personal alcohol license is now available free of charge to consume alcoholic beverages in Dubai.
2. How can I apply for a personal alcohol license in Dubai?
A. You can apply for a personal alcohol license in Dubai by visiting any MMI or African + Eastern store with your Emirates ID and filling out an application form.
3. Can I renew my personal alcohol license online?
A. Yes, you can. You can renew your personal alcohol license online through the websites of MMI or African + Eastern.
4. What are the penalties for selling or consuming alcohol without a license in Dubai?
A. Selling or consuming alcohol without a license in Dubai is illegal and may result in fines, imprisonment, deportation, or revocation of your license. The penalties may vary depending on the severity of the offense and the discretion of the authorities.
5. What is the tax on alcohol in Dubai?
A. There is no additional Tax on alcohol except VAT. Starting from January 1, 2023, a 30% tax on alcohol has been removed which was previously imposed on sales of alcoholic drinks.
6. Do I need a license to serve alcohol in Dubai?
A. Yes, you need a license to serve alcohol within a hotel, club, or restaurant, you need a Type C liquor license issued by the Dubai Police General Headquarters (DPGH).
7. Where can I buy alcohol in Dubai?
A. There are two ways to buy Alcohol. One offline by visiting stores of MMI or African+eastern, or ordering online through legalhomedelivery.com
Conclusion
Alcohol consumption is legal in Dubai for non-Muslims who have valid alcohol licenses. There are different types of licenses depending on the purpose and activity of selling or buying alcohol.
If you need any assistance or guidance on how to apply for an alcohol license in Dubai, you can contact us or email us.
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