So You Want to be a Dubai Bar Licence Connoisseur? A Not-So-Serious Guide
Ah, Dubai. Land of sunshine, souks, and... surprisingly strict alcohol laws. But fear not, aspiring barfly, for within these sands lies the golden ticket to tipples: the Dubai bar license. But how does one obtain this mythical permit, you ask? Well, fret no more, for I, your not-so-serious guide, am here to unveil the secrets (well, not really secrets, but helpful tips) to becoming a licensed loiterer at your favorite Dubai pub.
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| How To Get Bar License In Dubai |
Step 1: You and Age - A Love Story (as Long as You're Over 21)
This one's a dealbreaker, folks. You gotta be 21 or older to even contemplate the idea of a bar license. Let's just say, showing up with your fake ID from college won't impress the folks at the Department of Perfectly Aged Beverages (not a real department, but it should be).
Step 2: The All-Important Emirates ID - Your Boozy BFF
If you're a Dubai resident, this little card is your key to unlocking a world of happy hours. Head down to any MMI or African + Eastern store (the official alcohol distributors in Dubai, because apparently there can't be just one) and flash your Emirates ID. Poof! You're now the proud owner of a free 12-month bar license. That's right, free! Unless you spill it on yourself, then that's a different kind of fee entirely.
Tourists, fear not! You can snag a temporary 30-day license from the same stores, all you need is your passport with that sweet Dubai entry stamp. Just remember, this is a temporary solution, kind of like that souvenir glow stick - fun for a bit, but fades fast.
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
Step 3: Brush Up on Your Responsible Drinking Skills
This might be the most important step, and it has absolutely nothing to do with paperwork. Dubai takes responsible drinking seriously, so be sure you're prepared to pace yourself and enjoy your beverages like a civilized adult (most of the time).
Remember: excessive Judy Dench impersonations at karaoke night are strictly prohibited under Rule 42 of the Official Dubai Bar License Handbook (again, not a real handbook, but you get the idea).
Congratulations! You've conquered the bar license maze and are now officially a certified sipper in Dubai. Now go forth and responsibly clink those glasses!
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
FAQs for the Aspiring Dubai Drinker
How to know if I'm eligible for a bar license?
Simple! As long as you're 21+ and a resident with a valid Emirates ID, you're good to go. Tourists can get a temporary 30-day license.
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How much does a bar license cost?
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
Residents get a free 12-month license, while tourists' 30-day permit is also free. Dubai likes to keep things affordable (for licensing, at least).
Where can I apply for a bar license?
No need for an application! Residents just need to register their Emirates ID at an MMI or African + Eastern store. Tourists can get theirs at the same stores with their passport.
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
How long does it take to get a bar license?
Residents? Walk in and walk out with your license in minutes. Tourists? Same speedy service. Dubai operates on drink-now philosophy (well, responsibly of course).
Is there anything else I need to know?
Yes indeed! Dubai is all about responsible drinking. So pace yourself, be respectful, and remember, nobody likes a karaoke hog. Now go have fun!
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