Drinking Guide
Legal BAC
ZERO
Drinking Age
21+
New Drivers
Zero BAC
Dubai and Abu Dhabi hotel bars serve world-class cocktails, though at premium prices.
All alcohol is imported. The UAE has no domestic alcohol production (except for recent craft beer experiments).
The UAE is a Muslim country where alcohol is legal but heavily regulated. Drinking is only permitted in licensed venues (hotels, bars, clubs) and private residences. Public intoxication is illegal. Dubai has a vibrant nightlife scene concentrated in hotels and beach clubs. Sharjah is completely dry.
ZERO BAC tolerance for driving. Any alcohol detected: fine AED 25,000+, imprisonment up to 1 month, license confiscated 6-12 months, vehicle impounded 60 days. Can also face deportation for non-citizens.
ZERO tolerance for drink driving — use taxis, Uber, or Careem exclusively.
Alcohol is only available at licensed venues (hotels, bars, clubs) — not in public.
Public intoxication is a criminal offense — maintain composure.
Sharjah emirate is completely dry — no alcohol at all.
Brunch deals at hotels (often including unlimited drinks) are a Dubai institution.
During Ramadan, alcohol service hours are significantly reduced.
HowDrunk knows United Arab Emirates's local drinks and legal limits. Get your personalized drink limit in seconds.