Alcohol Rules by Country

Understanding Alcohol Laws While Traveling

Alcohol laws vary dramatically worldwide - from complete prohibition to virtually no restrictions. Violating alcohol laws can result in hefty fines, imprisonment, or deportation. This comprehensive guide helps you understand what's legal, where to drink, and how to stay out of trouble.

Types of Alcohol Regulations

Complete Prohibition

Countries: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Sudan, Yemen, Libya, Brunei, Bangladesh (with exceptions)

Alcohol is completely banned for everyone, including tourists. Production, import, sale, and consumption are all illegal. Penalties range from fines and flogging to imprisonment. Non-Muslim tourists cannot obtain alcohol legally in these countries.

Restricted (Muslims Only)

Countries: UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Malaysia, Indonesia

Non-Muslims can obtain alcohol licenses and drink in licensed venues like hotels and bars. Muslims face prohibition. Public drunkenness is illegal for everyone. Strict regulations on where you can drink and carry alcohol.

Legal with Regulations

Countries: India, Thailand, USA, most of the world

Alcohol is legal but regulated. Minimum drinking ages, licensing hours, dry days, and public drinking laws vary. Tourist-friendly with accessible alcohol in restaurants, bars, and shops.

Common Questions

Is alcohol legal in Saudi Arabia?

No, alcohol is completely prohibited in Saudi Arabia for everyone, including non-Muslim tourists. There are no exceptions, no licensed venues, and no way to legally obtain or consume alcohol. Penalties for violating this law include fines, flogging (for Muslims), imprisonment, and deportation. Do not attempt to bring alcohol into the country.

Can tourists drink alcohol in UAE?

Yes, non-Muslim tourists aged 21+ can drink alcohol in licensed venues like hotels, bars, restaurants, and clubs in UAE. You don't need a personal license as a tourist (locals do). However, public drunkenness is illegal, drinking in public places outside licensed venues is prohibited, and driving with any alcohol in your system results in zero tolerance penalties. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have many licensed venues.

What is the drinking age in the USA?

The legal drinking age in the USA is 21 throughout all 50 states. This applies to purchasing and publicly consuming alcohol. Some states allow drinking under 21 with parental permission in private settings. Penalties for underage drinking include fines, community service, license suspension, and criminal records. Bars and stores strictly check ID.

Tips for Drinking Safely Abroad

• Research local laws before your trip
• Always carry ID - enforcement is strict in many countries
• Drink only in licensed establishments in restricted countries
• Never drink and drive - penalties are severe globally
• Respect dry days (religious holidays when alcohol sales stop)
• Avoid public drunkenness - it's illegal in many countries
• Don't bring alcohol into prohibited countries - customs will confiscate it
• Be aware of prices - tourist areas often charge 2-3x normal rates

Plan Your Trip Responsibly

Now that you understand alcohol laws, explore our travel packages with local guidance, or contact us for personalized advice.