Taking a boozy beach holiday in Dubai is about to become a lot cheaper
A BOOZY beach holiday in Dubai and budget-friendly don't often go together.
However, Dubai is scrapping its 30 per cent tax on alcohol sales for 2023.
According to a from the Dubai Municipality, for a year, starting on January 1, Dubai Municipality will not be collecting the 30 per cent levy from businesses that sell alcoholic beverages.
This decision has been communicated to the businesses permitted to sell in the Emirate of Dubai.
The recent change is part of Dubai's campaign to increase tourism and draw in more foreign residents.
Even though Dubai is known as the "party capital" of the UAE, alcohol is infamously expensive, with a pint of beer sometimes costing £14 and a glass of wine costing more than £17.
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Because of this, residents and tourists often travel outside of the UAE to purchase alcohol in large quantities.
To drink, transport, or keep alcohol at home in Dubai, non-Muslim citizens must be at least 21 years old and possess an alcohol licence (a card issued by the police).
Antonio Fellino, managing director of Travel Republic, said:" "This is great news for travellers looking to visit Dubai, as holiday prices will become cheaper, and costs for hotels and accommodation providers will fall.
“Prices on all-inclusive holidays, which are generally proving really popular this year and particularly to destinations such as Dubai, will also become competitive and therefore more affordable for all."
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He added that bookings to Dubai were up 62 per cent compared to 2021, with holidays as little as £24pp.
He added: "It’s a very welcome move by Dubai.
"I am sure that the UK Market will react favourably as consumers are looking for exceptional value for their holidays this year, and to be able to purchase alcohol and enjoy a drink more cheaply will be a bonus."
If you're ready to jet off to Dubai, we rounded up the top 10 hotels in Dubai on TripAdvisor, with deals from £167pp in 2023.
We explained the latest travel requirements to travel to Dubai, including passport validity.
We've also revealed how to save, spend and splurge on a holiday in the UAE.