Dubai: MMI removes 30% municipality tax levied on alcohol sales

Following the recent directives from the government of Dubai relating to the purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages in the city, UAE-based beverage import, marketing, sales, retail and distribution company Maritime Mercantile International (MMI) has removed the 30 per cent municipality tax from alcoholic beverages and fee from personal liquor licenses.

From January 1, personal liquor licenses are free to obtain for those eligible to legally purchase these beverages in Dubai. A valid Emirates ID, or passport for tourists, will still be required to apply.

Tyrone Reid, group CEO of MMI, Emirates Leisure Retail, said: “Following the announcement by the Government of Dubai to remove the 30 per cent municipality tax on sales of alcoholic beverages, we are pleased to announce that this will be reflected across all alcoholic beverage products in all our 21 MMI stores in Dubai, effective from January 1.

“These recently updated regulations are instrumental to continue ensuring the safe and responsible purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages in Dubai and the UAE,” said Reid, in a statement.

A person must be at least 21 to drink legally in the UAE, and alcohol can only be consumed privately or in licensed public places.