
Abu Dhabi has strict laws regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol. While the legal drinking age in the emirate is 18, a Ministry of Tourism by-law restricts alcohol service in hotels to individuals over 21. It is also illegal to be intoxicated in public outside of licensed venues, and travellers have been arrested at the airport for being drunk on a flight or during transit. As for purchasing alcohol at Abu Dhabi Airport, duty-free shops do sell alcohol, although prices may be higher than at liquor stores outside the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I buy alcohol at Abu Dhabi airport? | Yes, alcohol can be purchased at duty-free shops in Abu Dhabi Airport. |
| Do I need a license to buy alcohol? | It is suggested that a license is needed to buy alcohol at stores in the UAE. |
| Is it allowed during Ramadan? | It is unclear whether duty-free shops sell liquor during Ramadan. |
| How much alcohol can I carry in my luggage? | You can carry up to 4 liters of spirits/wine or a 24-pack of beer without needing to declare it. |
| What are the drinking laws in Abu Dhabi? | The legal drinking age in Abu Dhabi is 18 years, but hotels can only serve alcohol to those over 21. It is illegal to be intoxicated in public outside of licensed venues. |
| Are there liquor stores outside the airport? | Yes, liquor stores outside the airport sell alcohol at cheaper prices than duty-free shops. |
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What You'll Learn

Alcohol is available at Abu Dhabi airport's duty-free shops
Yes, alcohol is available at Abu Dhabi airport's duty-free shops. However, it is reportedly slightly more expensive than liquor stores outside the airport in Abu Dhabi city. If you are looking to save money, it may be worth purchasing alcohol from a store in the city.
It is important to note that while the legal drinking age in Abu Dhabi is 18 years, a Ministry of Tourism by-law means that hotels can only serve alcohol to those over 21. It is also illegal to be intoxicated in public outside of licensed venues, and authorities have been known to arrest travellers at the airport for intoxication. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the local laws and consume alcohol responsibly.
If you are looking for specific recommendations on where to purchase alcohol in Abu Dhabi, there are a few options. Some Reddit users have suggested buying alcohol from stores such as Windmill, Drinks and Delights, Spinneys, or Peninsula. These stores offer a range of known brands at varying prices. For example, Spinneys and Peninsula are on the more expensive side, while African and Eastern offer mostly generic brands at cheaper prices.
Additionally, there are online shops in Abu Dhabi that offer free home delivery of liquor. These shops have a flat fee for orders under a certain amount and free delivery for orders above that threshold. However, it is important to note that online sales of alcoholic products may not be available in industrial or labour areas.
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You can carry up to 4 litres of alcohol upon arrival
If you're planning to travel to Abu Dhabi and want to carry alcohol with you, it's important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding alcohol possession and consumption. Here's what you need to know about carrying alcohol upon your arrival at Abu Dhabi Airport:
Alcohol Allowance:
You can carry up to 4 litres of alcohol when you arrive at Abu Dhabi Airport. This allowance is for spirits, wine, or beer, and you are not required to declare it upon arrival. This information is specifically relevant to travellers arriving at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH).
Purchasing Alcohol:
If you don't want to bring your own alcohol, you can purchase it once you arrive. The Abu Dhabi Airport duty-free shops sell alcohol, although some travellers have noted that the prices can be slightly higher than at liquor stores outside the airport in Abu Dhabi city.
Legal Drinking Age:
It's important to remember that the legal drinking age in Abu Dhabi is 18 years. However, due to a Ministry of Tourism by-law, hotels are only permitted to serve alcohol to individuals over the age of 21. Additionally, it is illegal to be intoxicated in public outside of licensed venues, and penalties for alcohol-related offences can include fines, jail, or deportation.
Online Liquor Stores:
If you are staying in Abu Dhabi for an extended period, you can also order alcohol online for delivery to your location. Several online liquor stores in Abu Dhabi offer free delivery for orders above a certain amount.
In summary, when travelling to Abu Dhabi, you can carry up to 4 litres of alcohol upon arrival, and you have the option to purchase more at the airport duty-free shops or from liquor stores in the city. Remember to stay informed about the local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable visit.
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The legal drinking age in Abu Dhabi is 18
While I cannot confirm whether you can buy alcohol at Abu Dhabi airport, the legal drinking age in Abu Dhabi is 18. However, there is a Ministry of Tourism by-law that means hotels can only serve alcohol to people over the age of 21. It is illegal to be intoxicated in public outside of licensed venues, and penalties for alcohol-related offences can include fines, jail, or deportation. If you are travelling to Abu Dhabi and plan on drinking, it is important to be aware of these laws and to drink responsibly.
If you are looking to purchase alcohol while in Abu Dhabi, there are a few options. You can buy alcohol from liquor stores in the city, which tend to be cheaper than airport duty-free prices. Some recommended stores include Windmill, Drinks and Delights, Spinneys, and Peninsula. These stores offer a range of known brands at various price points. You can also purchase alcohol online and have it delivered to your location in Abu Dhabi.
When travelling to Abu Dhabi, it is important to be mindful of the local laws and cultural norms surrounding alcohol consumption. While the legal drinking age is 18, it is advisable to drink in moderation and to avoid public intoxication. Respecting the local culture and adhering to the laws of the land will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during your stay in Abu Dhabi.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the legal drinking age in Dubai and the northern Emirates, except for Sharjah, is 21 years. If you are planning on visiting multiple emirates during your trip, be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in each region to avoid any legal issues.
Lastly, always carry a valid ID with you when purchasing or consuming alcohol in Abu Dhabi. While the legal drinking age is 18, establishments may have their own policies and may request proof of age to ensure compliance with the law. By carrying a valid form of identification, you can avoid any potential issues or misunderstandings when purchasing alcoholic beverages.
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Drinking in public outside licensed venues is illegal
Yes, you can buy alcohol at Abu Dhabi airport. The airport duty-free shop sells alcohol, and some travellers have noted that it is only slightly more expensive than liquor stores outside the airport in Abu Dhabi city. However, drinking in public outside licensed venues is illegal in Abu Dhabi.
The legal drinking age in Abu Dhabi is 18 years, but a Ministry of Tourism by-law means that hotels can only serve alcohol to those over 21. It is illegal to be intoxicated in public outside of licensed venues, and authorities have been known to arrest travellers at the airport for becoming intoxicated on a flight or while in transit. If you are intoxicated and use a taxi, be aware that you may be arrested if you have a dispute with a driver or vomit in their taxi. If you commit a crime after drinking alcohol, you will likely be charged with that offence and with intoxication. Penalties for alcohol-related offences can include fines, jail, or deportation.
If you are planning to bring alcohol with you when you travel, you can carry up to four litres of spirits or wine, or a 24-pack of beer, without needing to declare it.
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Liquor stores outside the airport have cheaper prices
Yes, you can buy alcohol at Abu Dhabi International Airport. The Abu Dhabi Duty-Free shop offers liquor and tobacco, along with other products such as cosmetics, skincare, electronics, watches, jewellery, confectionery, and fragrances.
While the airport's duty-free shop is a convenient option, it is worth noting that some travellers and locals have indicated that liquor stores outside the airport in Abu Dhabi city offer cheaper prices. These stores include Windmill, Drinks and Delights, Spinneys, Peninsula, and African and Eastern. These stores provide a range of options, from well-known brands to generic labels, allowing for a variety of preferences and budgets.
When purchasing alcohol in Abu Dhabi, it is important to be mindful of the local regulations and licensing requirements. Additionally, if you are planning to bring your own alcohol into the country, it is recommended to familiarise yourself with the relevant customs regulations, as there may be quantity limits and declaration requirements.
By comparing prices and options both at the airport and outside liquor stores, you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget constraints. It is always beneficial to consider different options to ensure you find the best value for your purchase.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can purchase alcohol at Abu Dhabi airport's duty-free shops. However, it may be more expensive than liquor stores outside the airport in Abu Dhabi city.
You can bring up to 4 litres of spirits/wine or a 24-pack of beer without having to declare it.
The legal drinking age in Abu Dhabi is 18 years. However, due to a Ministry of Tourism by-law, hotels can only serve alcohol to those over 21. It is illegal to be intoxicated in public outside of licensed venues, and authorities have been known to arrest travellers at the airport for intoxication.



























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