Where to Get the Best Beers in Dubai

From guest writer Debajit Dhar:

Winter is the perfect time to quench your thirst with something remarkably refreshing.

Dubai’s average temperature of mid- to- high-20s Celsius during winter makes it the perfect city to crack open a cold one. In fact, as the demand for a refreshing, thirst-quenching beer continues to grow, Dubai is emerging as one of the best cities in the Gulf region for beer enthusiasts.

If this is your first visit to the City of Gold or your hundredth, then this article will serve as a guide to some of Dubai’s firm establishments and new, evolving trends. From established beer bars to up-and- coming enterprises, we’ll show you where to find the best beers in Dubai.

Dubai’s alcohol license

As the onset of winter is an anticipated presence in Dubai, tourists and non-Muslims residents alike take the opportunity to delve into the city’s cooler weather specialties. With free-flowing weekend brunches, one-of- a-kind rooftop bars, and off the beaten path bars, visitors to this glamorous city are spoiled for choice.

But as a Muslim city that adheres to Sharia Law, certain admonitions must be considered.

In Dubai, and throughout the majority of the United Arab Emirates, non-Muslim residents looking to purchase, store, or drink alcohol in their homes are required to own and carry an alcohol license. The process for a Dubai alcohol license is relatively simple; the inquiring non-Muslim resident must be 21
years of age (as per Dubai’s legal drinking age) and earn more than Dhs3,000 per month.

An application form can be picked up from one of two licensed liquor operators in Dubai or filled out
online.

Drinking alcohol in Dubai

As a Muslim city, Dubai permits the consumption or purchase of alcohol only in designated areas that have the license to sell alcohol. This means that alcohol can only be bought in licensed liquor stores like African + Eastern stores.

Bars and nightclubs serving alcohol must be attached to a hotel or private club. Drunk and disorderly conduct in public spaces is considered unlawful. Dubai carries a zero tolerance of drinking and driving.

If brought to the attention of police, severe punishment may be met by the offending party. Criminal sanctions will often take the form of imprisonment and/or fines. Violations may also result in visa revocation.

Where to buy beer

For beer enthusiasts who value flavor, regionality, and hop profiles, the introduction of craft beer in the Gulf region signifies growth in demand within the beer industry. This growth in demand means that non-Muslim residents can enjoy numerous varieties of beer. The extensive range is varied; with ingredients and brewery styles from all corners of the globe.

Dubai is host to a comprehensive selection of beer favorites. While no alcohol is sold in supermarkets, there are specialist outlets that do cater for beer aficionados. African + Eastern, one of two liquor operators in Dubai features a wide portfolio of beers for purchase.

This includes perennial classics like Guinness, Foster’s, Hoegaarden, and even Somersby available for purchase. And with 16 conveniently located stores populating Dubai, stocking up on favorites come with relative ease.

Dubai’s best bars and pubs

Looking for the traditional pub experience? Dubai is home to some of the world’s most stylish bars that suit all tastes and preference. For those looking to venture out into Dubai’s varied nightlife, many brewmasters have come to call Dubai home.

True Irish flavor complete with the finest selection of Irish beers on tap can be found in:
● The Irish Village
● The Dubliner’s
● McGettigan’s

Belgian ales and stouts have also made a name for themselves in Dubai. Belgian Beer Café is an authentic European café in the heart of the Arab peninsula. Der Keller brings discerning Deutschland flavors to Dubai with its selection of German draughts and pilsners.

If the perfect vacation consists of relaxing under the warm arid winter sun complemented by a refreshing cold one, then below are are just some of the outdoor spaces that revel in drinking al fresco:
● 40 Kong
● Zero Gravity
● Barasti Beach Bar
● Warehouse
Many offer tranquil settings with stunning views for a casual evening of sessionable beers topped with good company.

Its wealth of bars, pubs, and specialty outlets makes Dubai a haven for all warm-weather sipping needs. While cocktails are still predominantly the preferred go-to drink in the city, Dubai is slowly unveiling an ever-expanding beer market that’s shaking up the cocktail scene. Complemented by a variety of styles
and flavors Dubai’s beer scene is reaching more and more of the thirsty public.