Beer lovers certainly don’t have to feel dry when in Dubai. Contrary to popular belief, foreigners can still drink alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits in this part of the desert. Let us show you what the local beer scene is like by showing you the some of the best places to enjoy a cold one.
Besides providing information and details on where to buy alcohol in Dubai, also listed here are a few tips on how you can legally buy beer and other types of alcohol in the city.
The Irish Village
Still thinking of a place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? When staying in Dubai, you can’t find any other place that’s more Irish than the Irish Village. This beer lover’s paradise features elements imported straight from the land of the leprechauns including the stone pavement, the windows and the old telephone box.
There are plenty of Irish- and British-inspired dishes to choose from to pair with your chosen brews as well. With traditional Irish music playing in the background and old Irish smiles all around, drinking a Guinness at the Irish Villages does make you feel like you’ve been transported to a different place and time.
Barasti Beach Bar
If you want to enjoy a few fermented drinks after a few laps down the beach then take a side trip down to the Barasti Beach Bar. The Barasti Beach Bar has become an institution for people visiting the Jumeirah Beach.
For avid beer drinkers, there are a few familiar brands in their menu. It’s one place you should not miss when you are looking for a good spot to chill out and relax in, even after the sun has gone below the horizon.
Belgian Cafe
For the Irish, there’s the Irish village. If you’re Belgian, there’s no better way to get your beer fix than to check out the Belgian Cafe. Here you can try out some of the best food, beer and other exports from this sector of Europe
Der Keller
It doesn’t have to be Oktoberfest for you to enjoy a few German ales. Being one of Dubai’s longest standing restaurants, Der Keller offers a combination of the best food and beer the Germans have to offer in a casual setting.
McGettigan’s JLT
For a mix of English and Irish influences, the McGettigan’s JLT is one place to visit. Feel your chest thumping with loud music blaring or a championship game playing in the background. If you are looking for a plate to go with your stout, then try out their signature hot wings for starters. After 10 p.m., beer lovers can pair their favorite brews with a few servings of Scampi with Chips or chips with a bowl of their Parmesan, Garlic and Herbs Sauce.
Perry & Blackwelder’s Original Smokehouse
Enjoy some southern style BBQ or Texan-size burgers paired with a few bottles of Budweiser at this American bar and restaurant. It is a haven for people who love sports as well. For people who enjoy watching sports championships, come see a few rounds of football, boxing or MMA with a few cans of brew in your hand at the Perry & Blackwelder’s Original Smokehouse.
Tap House
Nestled along the coast of Palm Jumeirah is this newly opened haven for beer aficionados. If craft beer is what you need, the Tap House is sure to satisfy you with a selection of 24 brands from around the world. The featured 24 changes on a regular basis, giving loyal patrons a reason to visit the pub more frequently. Drink a cold one from their beach terrace and enjoy stunning views of Dubai’s skyline.
The Warehouse
If it takes you a while to decide what beer to buy, then you need to prepare well before visiting The Warehouse. This vibrant bar takes pride in having the most varied list of beers in the city. Happy hour in this beer drinker’s oasis is from Saturday to Thursday at 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Cellars
For a more varied selection of alcoholic beverages, go and head out to The Cellars. This drinking establishment boasts of having the largest assortment of wine, beer, champagne and other spirits in the entire region. Open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. until midnight, it is one fine drinking establishment that any beer lover visiting or staying in Dubai cannot afford not to visit.
Check out the website of The Cellars today to learn about their current and upcoming promos that are sure to make each visit more worthwhile. Spend as low as AED 250 on your favorite alcohol beverages and you are guaranteed a special gift. So go invite your friends or co-workers for a more memorable drinking experience.
Buying alcohol in Dubai
Understanding the local culture is key to enjoying beers, wines and other forms of alcohol without any major mishaps. Local laws do permit tourists and travelers to drink as long as they do so in licensed bars, restaurants and hotels.
If you are a resident (expats included), on the other hand, a liquor license is required if you wish to buy, drink, transport or store any type of alcohol. Fail to do so and you may end up paying heavily. You may have to pay a heavy fine, land in jail, lose your visa or even get deported.
To apply for a licence, you need to satisfy the following requirements:
- Prove that you are over the age of 21 years.
- Show proof that you are not a Muslim.
- Provide evidence that you are earning over AED 3,000 monthly.
- Pay a fee of AED 270.
Getting a liquor license is a relatively simple and easy process. African + Eastern can make it easier for those in need of the license. Simply send them a copy of all your documents and they will apply the license on your behalf. Once you have the license in your hands, you are free to enjoy beer and other forms of liquor and alcohol for a year.
If you are in Dubai and you want to enjoy a few cans of beer, these spots are worth checking out. Remember that drinking a few cans of beer is legal in this region as long you abide by the rules set forth by the local government.