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Abu Dhabi scraps liquor license requirement for alcohol purchases

People in the emirate now need only be of age and in a certified drinking area such as a bar to consume alcohol.
A bar tendant serves customers at a restaurant in Dubai on August 30, 2018. - As temperature levels soar in Dubai, residents and tourists in the rich Emirate turn to a much favourite indoor outing during summer days: restaurants. From business lunches, to fresh decorations, Dubais top restaurants compete to attract those costumers looking to beat the heat with a customised cool drink, or an award winning plate. (Photo by KARIM SAHIB / AFP)        (Photo credit should read KARIM SAHIB/AFP via Getty Images)

Abu Dhabi is no longer requiring people to have a license to obtain alcohol. The new measure comes as the United Arab Emirates seeks to boost its hospitality industry amid the continued pandemic.

The UAE capital city’s Department of Culture and Tourism informed liquor dealers of the decision on Monday. The new rules stipulate that people need only be 21 years old and consume the alcohol at home or in a licensed area, such as a bar or hotel, The Associated Press reported.

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