Loosening Alcohol Regulations in This Country Could Mean Cheaper Drinks for Tourists
(Photo: Nextvoyage/Pexels)
On Sunday, Dubai’s two state-linked alcohol retailers announced the end of Dubai’s 30% tax on alcohol sales in the sheikhdom and made its required liquor licenses free to obtain. Reportedly, the move aims to boost travel to the emirate.
The New Year’s Day decree came from Dubai’s ruling Al Maktoum family, AP News reported. However, government officials appeared silent on the matter and did not immediately acknowledge the decision.
Dubai is a top tourist destination in the United Arab Emirates, especially for affluent travelers. Despite traditional cultural differences in relation to the consumption of alcohol, the sale of booze has become an indicator of economic success in the region, AP News says.
The presence of Dubai in pop culture has been growing as well. It served as the backdrop to the infamous Sex and the City 2 movie starring Sarah Jessica Parker. Additionally, Mission Impossible saw Tom Cruise traversing its iconic architecture. Not to mention, Dubia earned a visit from the likes of Kyle Richards and Lisa Rinna in a past season of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
The major drop in taxes should mean cheaper booze and some are implementing the changes very quickly.
One of the country’s main alcohol distributors Maritime Mercantile International said on Linkedin, “we are pleased to announce the removal of the 30% municipality tax on all alcoholic beverages across our 21 stores in Dubai, as well as the personal liquor license fee.”
According to The New York Times, some Emiratis are uncomfortable with the pace and direction that country is going in. However, people’s dissent appears to be largely repressed.
Back in November, Qatar, a neighboring country to UAE, received a lot of attention for its handling of the World Cup and alcohol took center stage. The royal family in this region appeared to take an opposite stance on booze after it ended up banning alcohol from the tournament.
Many who follow Islam believe alcohol should not be consumed and this has been the viewpoint of many Muslim-majority governments. Despite differences in cultural and religious beliefs, alcohol appears to be a major attractor to tourists. It seems UAE may be leaning toward the economic benefits of travelers visiting their country as their policies begin to shift.
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