Abu Dhabi abolishes permit system for buying alcohol

Abu Dhabi abolishes permit system for buying alcohol

Authorities in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi have abolished the requirement for permits to purchase and consume alcohol, according to an official circular, after neighbouring Dubai also moved to relax rules.

The changes come as both the emirates, among seven in the United Arab Emirates federation, seek to rebuild their tourism industries after the coronavirus shutdown, and also prepare for visitors from Israel after a landmark deal to normalise relations.

"We are announcing the cancellation of permits for alcohol, and residents and tourists will have the right to buy it in authorised stores," said the circular from the Department of Culture and Tourism dated September 15 and seen by AFP on Tuesday.

Current licence will become obsolete in move designed to streamline application process

The directive said buyers must be at least 21 years