Alcohol Availability At Abu Dhabi Airport

Alcohol is available for purchase at Abu Dhabi airport, but only behind the security checkpoint. Travellers are advised to buy alcohol at the airport rather than bringing it in from outside, as alcohol in carry-on luggage may be confiscated by security. Alcohol is generally available in Abu Dhabi in hotels, bars or restaurants attached to hotels, and in liquor shops for non-Muslims.

Buying alcohol at Abu Dhabi duty-free

If you are travelling through Abu Dhabi airport and want to buy alcohol, the best option is to do so at the airport's duty-free shops. You can find these shops behind the security checkpoint.

It is worth noting that, according to local laws, alcohol consumption in the UAE is generally forbidden. However, in practice, there are many bars and shops where alcohol is served and sold. As a tourist, you can buy alcohol from duty-free shops and consume it within the designated areas, such as hotel bars and restaurants attached to hotels.

When purchasing alcohol at Abu Dhabi duty-free, you may encounter other travellers who have shared their experiences online. Some have reported being able to carry liquor through security without any issues, while others have had their alcohol confiscated, even when stored in a clear, tamper-proof bag with a receipt. To avoid any potential issues, it is recommended to purchase alcohol only at the Abu Dhabi airport duty-free shops.

Additionally, if you plan to consume alcohol in Abu Dhabi, it is important to do so responsibly and only within designated areas. As a non-Muslim, you are permitted to drink alcohol in certain places, such as hotel bars, and in the privacy of your hotel room. However, drinking in public is prohibited, and doing so can lead to punishment.

Carrying alcohol in transit

If you are carrying alcohol in transit through Abu Dhabi Airport, you may be able to pass through security without having your alcohol confiscated, but this is not guaranteed. It is recommended that you buy duty-free alcohol at the airport after the security checkpoint to avoid any issues.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), non-Muslim passengers can bring up to 4 litres of alcohol into Abu Dhabi duty-free. However, if you are in transit, you are not importing anything into the country, so this rule does not apply. The issue is not with carrying alcohol but with carrying liquids over 100ml on a flight. As long as your alcohol is in a sealed, tamper-proof bag, it should be fine. However, if security staff are unsure of the rules, they may confiscate your alcohol, and you will not be able to argue with them, especially if there is a language barrier.

To avoid any issues, some travellers recommend buying alcohol at your origin country's airport and packing it in your checked baggage. This way, you don't have to worry about it being confiscated during your transit in Abu Dhabi. Alternatively, you can buy alcohol at the duty-free shops in Abu Dhabi Airport after passing through security.

Drinking alcohol in public

Abu Dhabi Airport does sell alcohol, which can be purchased at duty-free shops behind the security checkpoint. However, travellers should be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

• Local Laws: It is important to respect the local laws and customs of the UAE. While alcohol is available at the airport, drinking in public is usually prohibited. The interpretation of "public" may vary, so it is best to exercise caution and avoid consuming alcohol in open or visible areas.
• Airport Lounges: Alcohol is typically served in airport lounges, but it is crucial to remember that consuming alcohol and being "under the influence" in public, including during transit, is a punishable offence. Travellers should be mindful of their consumption and ensure they do not exceed the legal limits.
• Security Checks: When carrying alcohol through security checks, it is generally recommended to purchase alcohol at the Abu Dhabi duty-free shops after passing through security. If you are transiting and have already purchased alcohol, ensure it is in a sealed, tamper-proof bag, as per standard liquid restrictions. Even with proper packaging, there have been mixed reports of alcohol being confiscated by security staff.
• Airlines and Transit: The British Embassy has issued a warning to travellers regarding alcohol consumption on flights to or through the UAE. Consuming alcohol and having it in your blood while in the UAE, even if served by an Emirati carrier, can result in arrest. This includes transit stops at Abu Dhabi Airport. It is advised to refrain from consuming alcohol on flights or in transit to avoid any legal complications.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect for cultural and religious norms is essential when visiting or transiting through the UAE. While alcohol is available, public drunkenness or behaviour that may be considered disrespectful is strongly discouraged. It is advisable to maintain composure and follow local regulations to avoid any issues with authorities.

In summary, while alcohol is available for purchase at Abu Dhabi Airport, travellers should be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding consumption in public areas. It is generally recommended to avoid drinking in open spaces and to be cautious when consuming alcohol during transit to adhere to UAE regulations.

Buying alcohol in liquor shops

As a non-Muslim, you can buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi from designated "liquor shops", similar to those in the rest of the world. These shops are scattered around the city, and you won't need a licence to buy alcohol as a tourist. However, if you are a non-Muslim resident, you will need a liquor licence. Tourists do not need a licence to consume alcohol.

Liquor stores in Abu Dhabi stock a variety of spirits, wines, beers and ciders. You can find well-known international brands, as well as some more unique selections.

• Gray Mackenzie & Partners – located in the basement of The Hilton Capital Grand Hotel, Airport Road.
• Spinneys Abu Dhabi – one of the leading supermarket chains in the Middle East, with stores at various locations in Abu Dhabi.
• Windmill Cellar – a liquor store specialising in importing and distributing global brands, with four branches in Abu Dhabi.
• Euro Star Cellars – located in Ghantoot, close to the outskirts of Dubai, with a wide selection of fine wines, spirits, beers and ciders.
• African+Eastern – with several branches across the UAE, offering online alcohol licensing services for locals and tourists.
• MMI – one of the largest and most popular alcohol shops in Abu Dhabi, with a range of spirits, wines and beers.

It's important to note that while you can purchase alcohol in Abu Dhabi, you should not consume it in public places. Alcohol consumption in public is strictly prohibited.

Drinking alcohol in hotels

Drinking alcohol in Abu Dhabi hotels is allowed for non-Muslim visitors and expatriates above the age of 21. Drinking in public is prohibited, but you can consume alcohol in the privacy of your hotel room or within hotel establishments such as bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Since 15 September 2020, the Abu Dhabi government has confirmed that an alcohol license is no longer required for consumers, and you can buy alcohol from licensed retail shops or hotel establishments without presenting a license. However, it is important to be mindful of the emirate's predominantly Muslim culture and its Sharia law.

While drinking alcohol in hotels is permitted, it is crucial to drink responsibly and not cause any public unrest or intoxication. As a tourist, you can also buy alcohol from "liquor shops" scattered around Abu Dhabi without needing a license. These shops are for non-Muslims only and require a valid form of identification to prove you are above the legal drinking age.

Frequently asked questions