Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
Is this literally just a license to purchase alcohol in these stores, or is it also a license to transport it and consume it?
It authorizes tourists to legally obtain, possess and consume alcohol in Dubai. In private areas off public property. Like your hotel room or rented apartment or Airbnb that does not have its own liquor license.
If you don't have a license you can not drink alcohol in Dubai unless you purchase the minimum amount in duty free upon arrival or inside a bar/restaurant that has its own license. It's illegal to possess alcohol at a hotel or other accommodation without a license.
The license is ONLY for personal consumption. Not for resale or transport. It's only valid in the city of Dubai. And can only be purchased at the Emirates Group stores. Not valid in Abu Dhabi, or other emirates.
Prior to this new license, tourists only had two options. Buy the alcohol at duty free and hope it last your entire trip, or pay a arm and leg to buy a drink at a bar only, or in your hotel mini-fridge.