Dubai drops 30 percent tax on alcohol to woo tourists, expats

The modifications took impact on Sunday and can run for a one-year trial interval, based on home media.

ALCOHOL
Tourism is a key pillar of Dubai's economic system and grew greater than 180 % within the first half of 2022 in contrast with the corresponding interval in 2021 [File: Tomohiro Ohsumi/Getty Images]

Dubai has suspended a 30 % tax on alcohol and dropped a licence payment requirement beforehand wanted to purchase alcohol within the business and tourism hub, two main retailers mentioned on social media.

The transfer is anticipated to additional increase the enchantment of Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, to vacationers and expatriate residents drawn by its extra liberal life-style, in contrast with different Gulf cities.

The modifications took impact on Sunday and can run for a one-year trial interval, home media have mentioned.

“With the removing of 30% municipality tax and a free alcohol licence, shopping for your favorite drinks is now simpler and cheaper than ever,” MMI, one among two main purveyors of alcohol in Dubai, mentioned on its Instagram account on Sunday.

Costs in its shops throughout the emirate now replicate the removing of the tax, it added.

One other retailer, African+Japanese, confirmed on Sunday the tax now not utilized, however costs would stay topic to a 5 % value-added tax (VAT).

The Dubai Media Workplace didn't instantly reply to a request for remark.

Dubai’s economic system has rebounded swiftly from the COVID-19 pandemic, with gross home product (GDP) rising 4.6 % on the yr for the primary 9 months of 2022.

Tourism is a key pillar of the economic system, and vacationer numbers grew greater than 180 % within the first half of 2022 over the corresponding 2021 interval.

A number of Gulf states have launched VAT as they more and more flip to taxation to spice up non-oil income.

Whereas the UAE doesn't impose an earnings tax, it's going to introduce a 9 % company tax from June on earnings exceeding 375,000 dirhams ($102,100).

However Dubai, dwelling to the world’s tallest constructing and islands formed like palm bushes, faces rising regional competitors.

Saudi Arabia, for instance, is investing billions to burnish its tourism enchantment with efforts such because the Pink Sea Undertaking, whereas taking part in host to main cultural and sporting occasions.

Qatar can be hoping for elevated tourism following the 2022 World Cup.

The primary on line casino within the Gulf, the place Islamic guidelines have lengthy stored playing off limits, is anticipated to open within the UAE emirate of Ras al-Khaimah in 2026, at a resort being constructed and operated by Wynn Resorts.

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