Looking to buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi? Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, finding the right place to purchase your favorite spirits can be a challenge. Luckily, Abu Dhabi has a variety of options for purchasing alcohol, from specialty shops to supermarkets and even online retailers.
One of the most popular places to buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi is at one of the city’s many licensed liquor stores. These stores offer a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits, and are typically located in shopping centers or malls throughout the city. Some of the most well-known liquor stores in Abu Dhabi include African & Eastern, MMI, and Spinneys.
If you’re looking for a more convenient option, many supermarkets in Abu Dhabi also sell alcohol. Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Waitrose are just a few examples of supermarkets that offer a selection of beer, wine, and spirits. Keep in mind that these stores may have limited selection and may not carry certain brands or types of alcohol.
Understanding Abu Dhabi’s Alcohol Laws
If you’re planning to buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi, it’s important to understand the city’s alcohol laws. Abu Dhabi is a Muslim city, and therefore, Islamic laws apply here. Alcohol consumption and sale are legal in Abu Dhabi, but there are certain rules and regulations that you need to follow.
Age Limit
In Abu Dhabi, you must be 21 years or older to purchase and consume alcohol. If you’re caught selling or serving alcohol to someone under the age of 21, you could face serious consequences.
Licensing
To buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi, you need to have a valid liquor license. You can obtain a liquor license from the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA). You’ll need to provide a copy of your passport, residency visa, and a passport-sized photograph to apply for a liquor license.
Alcohol Purchase Limits
There are limits to the amount of alcohol you can purchase in Abu Dhabi. Non-Muslim residents can buy up to 20% of their monthly salary in alcohol. For example, if you earn AED 10,000 per month, you can buy AED 2,000 worth of alcohol. Tourists are allowed to purchase alcohol in licensed hotels and restaurants, but they cannot buy alcohol from retail stores.
Drinking and Driving
Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited in Abu Dhabi. If you’re caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you could face imprisonment, fines, and even deportation. The legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) in Abu Dhabi is 0.02%.
Conclusion
By following these rules and regulations, you can enjoy alcohol in Abu Dhabi without any legal issues. Always remember to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
Where to Buy Alcohol in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a city where alcohol consumption is regulated. However, it is still possible to find various places to purchase alcohol. Below are some of the places where you can buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi.
Liquor Stores
There are several liquor stores in Abu Dhabi where you can purchase alcohol. These stores are licensed by the government to sell alcohol to individuals who are over the age of 21. Some of the popular liquor stores in Abu Dhabi are:
- African & Eastern: This is a popular liquor store in Abu Dhabi that stocks a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits.
- Spinneys: Spinneys is a supermarket chain that has a dedicated section for alcohol. You can find a large selection of alcoholic beverages at Spinneys, including local and international brands.
- Cellar: Cellar is a boutique liquor store that specializes in premium wines and spirits. You can find a wide range of exclusive and hard-to-find alcoholic beverages at Cellar.
Hotels and Restaurants
Most hotels and restaurants in Abu Dhabi have a license to serve alcohol. If you are looking for a place to have a drink, you can visit one of the many hotels or restaurants in the city. Some of the popular hotels and restaurants that serve alcohol in Abu Dhabi are:
- Yas Island Rotana: This is a luxury hotel that has several bars and restaurants on its premises. You can enjoy a drink at the hotel’s rooftop bar, Y Bar, which offers stunning views of the city.
- The St. Regis Abu Dhabi: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi is a five-star hotel that has several bars and restaurants. You can enjoy a drink at the hotel’s Crystal Lounge, which offers a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere.
- Zuma: Zuma is a Japanese restaurant that serves a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including sake, wine, and cocktails. The restaurant has a trendy and chic atmosphere, making it a popular spot for drinks.
Duty-Free Shops
If you are looking to buy alcohol at a discounted price, you can visit one of the duty-free shops in Abu Dhabi. These shops are located at the airport and offer tax-free prices on alcoholic beverages. Some of the duty-free shops in Abu Dhabi are:
- Abu Dhabi Duty-Free: This is the main duty-free shop at Abu Dhabi International Airport. You can find a wide range of alcoholic beverages at Abu Dhabi Duty-Free, including local and international brands.
- DFS Abu Dhabi: DFS Abu Dhabi is another duty-free shop at the airport that offers tax-free prices on alcoholic beverages. You can find a large selection of wines, spirits, and beers at DFS Abu Dhabi.
In conclusion, there are several places where you can buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi, including liquor stores, hotels and restaurants, and duty-free shops. Make sure to follow the laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption in Abu Dhabi.
Online Alcohol Stores in Abu Dhabi
If you prefer to shop online, there are a few online alcohol stores in Abu Dhabi that you can check out. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- African + Eastern: This is one of the biggest alcohol retailers in the UAE, and they have an extensive online store where you can order beer, wine, spirits, and more. They offer free delivery on orders over AED 300, and their prices are competitive.
- MMI: Another major player in the alcohol retail industry in the UAE, MMI also has an online store where you can order beer, wine, spirits, and more. They offer free delivery on orders over AED 500, and they have a wide selection of products to choose from.
- Liquor Store UAE: This is a smaller online store, but they have a good selection of beer, wine, and spirits. They offer free delivery on orders over AED 200, and their prices are reasonable.
When ordering alcohol online in Abu Dhabi, it’s important to keep in mind that you must have a valid alcohol license in order to purchase and consume alcohol in the UAE. Additionally, some online stores may require you to provide a copy of your alcohol license before they can process your order.
Overall, shopping for alcohol online in Abu Dhabi can be a convenient option for those who prefer to avoid going to physical stores. Just make sure to check the delivery times and minimum order requirements before placing your order.
Alcohol Delivery Services in Abu Dhabi
If you prefer to have your alcohol delivered to your doorstep, Abu Dhabi has a few options for you. Here are some of the alcohol delivery services available in the city:
1. A+E Delivery
A+E Delivery is a popular alcohol delivery service in Abu Dhabi. They offer a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, spirits, and champagne. You can place your order through their website or by calling their hotline. They offer same-day delivery and have a minimum order requirement of AED 200.
2. Drinkies
Drinkies is another popular alcohol delivery service in Abu Dhabi. They have a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, spirits, and mixers. You can place your order through their website or mobile app. They offer same-day delivery and have a minimum order requirement of AED 100.
3. African + Eastern
African + Eastern is a well-known alcohol retailer in Abu Dhabi. They also offer alcohol delivery services. You can place your order through their website or by calling their hotline. They offer same-day delivery and have a minimum order requirement of AED 150.
4. MMI
MMI is another popular alcohol retailer in Abu Dhabi that offers delivery services. They have a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, spirits, and champagne. You can place your order through their website or by calling their hotline. They offer same-day delivery and have a minimum order requirement of AED 250.
Overall, there are several options for alcohol delivery services in Abu Dhabi. It’s important to note that you must be over 21 years old to order alcohol and you may be asked to show ID upon delivery.
Special Events and Occasions
If you are planning a special event or occasion in Abu Dhabi, you will want to make sure that you have the right selection of alcohol to keep your guests happy. Fortunately, there are many options available to you in the city.
One popular choice is to visit one of the many liquor stores in Abu Dhabi. These stores offer a wide variety of wines, beers, and spirits, as well as mixers and other accessories. Some of the most popular liquor stores in the city include:
- Spinneys
- African + Eastern
- MMI
Another option is to order your alcohol online. There are several websites that offer delivery of alcohol to your door, making it easy to stock up for your event without ever leaving your home. Some popular online alcohol delivery services in Abu Dhabi include:
- Drinkies
- Shop and Drop
- Al Hamra Cellar
If you are looking for a more upscale option, you may want to consider hiring a professional bartender or mixologist to create custom cocktails for your event. Many catering companies in Abu Dhabi offer this service, and can work with you to create a menu that perfectly complements your event.
Overall, there are many options available to you when it comes to buying alcohol for special events and occasions in Abu Dhabi. Whether you prefer to visit a liquor store, order online, or hire a professional bartender, you are sure to find the perfect selection of drinks to keep your guests happy and satisfied.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several options available for purchasing alcohol in Abu Dhabi. Whether you are looking for a wide selection of wines, spirits, or beer, you can find what you need at one of the many licensed retailers in the city.
If you are looking for a convenient option, consider visiting one of the many supermarkets that sell alcohol. Carrefour, Spinneys, and Waitrose are all popular choices among residents and visitors alike. These stores offer a wide range of options at competitive prices, making them a great choice for those on a budget.
For those looking for a more upscale experience, there are several high-end liquor stores scattered throughout the city. These stores offer a more curated selection of wines, spirits, and beer, often with a focus on luxury and high-end brands. Some of the most popular options include A&E, Le Clos, and MMI.
Finally, if you are looking for a quick and easy option, consider ordering alcohol online. Several online retailers offer delivery services throughout Abu Dhabi, making it easy to get your favorite drinks delivered straight to your doorstep.
Overall, there are plenty of options available for purchasing alcohol in Abu Dhabi. Whether you prefer to shop in person or online, there is sure to be a retailer that meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find African + Eastern in Abu Dhabi?
African + Eastern is one of the most popular places to buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi. They have several locations throughout the city, including in Al Mushrif, Khalidiya, and Al Wahda. You can also find African + Eastern in many of the major shopping malls in Abu Dhabi.
What are the liquor prices in Abu Dhabi?
The prices of liquor in Abu Dhabi vary depending on the type of alcohol and the store you buy it from. African + Eastern and other major alcohol stores typically have a wide range of prices, from affordable to premium. You can expect to pay more for imported brands and high-end spirits.
Are there any alcohol shops near me in Abu Dhabi?
There are many alcohol shops throughout Abu Dhabi, so it’s likely that there is one near you. African + Eastern, MMI, and Spinneys are some of the most popular places to buy alcohol in Abu Dhabi, and they have multiple locations throughout the city.
Can you buy alcohol at regular shops in Abu Dhabi?
No, you cannot buy alcohol at regular shops in Abu Dhabi. Alcohol can only be purchased at licensed stores, such as African + Eastern, MMI, and Spinneys. These stores are typically located in shopping malls and other commercial areas.
What are the new alcohol rules in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi has recently updated its alcohol laws to allow for more leniency in purchasing and consuming alcohol. Non-Muslim residents and tourists can now purchase and consume alcohol without a license, as long as they are over the age of 21. However, it is still illegal to drink and drive, and public intoxication is also not allowed.
Is it possible to buy alcohol online in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, it is possible to buy alcohol online in Abu Dhabi. African + Eastern and MMI both offer online ordering and home delivery services for alcohol purchases. However, you must be over the age of 21 and have a valid ID to receive your delivery.
