Dubai is known to have some of the strictest alcohol regulations in the world.
Under current laws, alcohol may only be served in private, licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants, and clubs. The laws apply to both locals and visitors.
If hot rumours are to be believed, all this could change in the near future.
According to Gulf News, non-Muslim visitors (over the age of 21) will soon be able to purchase booze from a licensed retailer by the name of Mercantile and Marketing International (MMI). Consider it the LCBO of the United Arab Emirates.
All you’ll have to do is apply for a liquor licence at one of MMI’s 17 locations across Dubai. Your license will be valid for 30 days, during which you can purchase alcohol to enjoy on private property.
Here’s what you need to know:
• Visit any MMI store with your original passport.
• Complete and sign a form confirming that you are a tourist and that you understand the rules and regulations with regards to purchasing, transporting and consumption of alcohol in Dubai.
• Each visitor will be issued a code of conduct leaflet with regard to alcohol consumption as the UAE has strict laws in this regard
• There is no fee and you can shop right away
• The foot note also mentions that liquor licence issued to tourists is only valid for visitors who are non-Muslim and 21 years and over.
Easy. Now don’t go out there and do something stupid, will ya?
