Dubai hotels warned on licensing laws

Dubai’s hospitality sector has been warned not to flout licensing laws which state customers in national dress cannot enter bars serving alcohol.

According to a report in 7DAYS, Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) is sending undercover inspectors into bars to monitor the clientele; and those who break the law face hefty fines or even closure.

DTCM hotel classification director Majid Sager Al Marri told 7DAYS that plain clothed DTCM staff or “mystery assessors” work day and night shifts, randomly inspecting establishments at Dubai’s 570 hotels, entertainment venues and leisure clubs to ensure they are complying with the liquor license rules.

An establishment found to be breaking the rules risks being fined up to AED 20,000, and permanent or temporary closure.

The rules regarding national dress are strict when it comes to alcohol stating: “Access to discos, nightclubs and dance clubs is forbidden to individuals wearing the national dress of the Arab Gulf Cooperation Council; Kandura (the white gown worn by Muslim men), Ghutra (traditional head dress) and Eqal (black headgear worn by men).”