Alcohol / Spirits → United Arab Emirates

Non-Muslim adults may import 4 litres of spirits or wine duty-free via most emirates.

Details

Non-Muslim adults aged 18 and over may bring up to 4 litres of spirits or wine (or 24 x 355ml cans of beer equivalent) into the UAE duty-free on arrival at Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah (limited), and most other UAE airports. Entry into Sharjah Emirate, which is dry, has stricter restrictions. Abu Dhabi airport has a formal duty-free allowance aligned with Dubai. Muslim travellers may not import alcohol — this is checked at customs. Amounts above the duty-free limit attract duty. Alcohol may be consumed by non-Muslims in licensed premises (hotels, certain restaurants, and licensed clubs). Public intoxication is illegal.

Quantity limit

4 litres of spirits/wine duty-free for non-Muslim adults 18+

Legal reference

UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 17 of 2021 on Public Funds Crimes; Emirates-level alcohol licensing regulations

Practical advice

Non-Muslims travelling to Dubai or Abu Dhabi can bring the standard 4-litre allowance. Avoid bringing alcohol when transiting to or staying in Sharjah. Do not share your duty-free allowance with Muslim travellers.

Customs authority

Federal Customs Authority (FCA) · https://www.fca.gov.ae