Relaxed Liquor Laws in Dubai, Abu Dhabi as UAE Rebuilds Tourism Industry

This year, Dubai also relaxed the permit system, making it easier for residents to acquire one by removing the requirement to obtain a "certificate of no objection" from their employer.

Residents need only to fill out a basic form, present their identity card, and pay 270 dirhams ($74) to obtain the permit. Tourists can get a temporary licence by showing their passport and visas at the store.

However, Muslims still cannot apply for an alcohol permit in Dubai.

The sale of alcohol is permitted in six of the seven emirates in the UAE, but is prohibited in conservative Sharjah which remains "dry" with no pubs or bars. Public intoxication and drink-driving are strictly banned across the country. 

(Writer & Editor: MH/SLS/DV, Agence France-Presse)

Source: http://u.afp.com/3RgD