Dubai abolishes alcohol tax

According to the BBC, Dubai is eliminating the 30% alcohol tax and will no longer require personal alcohol licenses, which are required for anyone wishing to consume alcohol.

This is an attempt to make the city more appealing to foreigners, especially given the competition from neighboring countries, according to the British channel.

It's unclear whether the measure, which took effect yesterday, will be permanent. According to well-informed sources, the Financial Times reported that it was a one-year trial measure.

Foreigners outnumber residents in Dubai by a ratio of nine to one. The city is known as the Gulf's "party capital," and residents usually travel to Umm al-Quwain or other emirates to buy alcohol wholesale.

Historically, Dubai has attracted more wealthy tourists and foreign workers than its neighbors, owing to more tolerant policies that accept a more liberal lifestyle. However, it is now facing increased competition from rivals in the hospitality and financial services sectors.

Non-Muslims in Dubai must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol and must have a police-issued license.

Although bars and nightclubs rarely request the card, those who consume alcohol without a license may face fines or arrest.