What is available in the UAE?
Pretty much everything! Alcohol – although the UAE is a Muslim country, purchasing and drinking alcohol in a licensed club, bar, or restaurant is legal for non-Muslims who are over 21. To buy alcohol for home consumption one must have a personal liquor license, which can only be obtained once the person has residency status, which can take 4-8 weeks. The cost is approximately 105 Dh (approximately $30US). (Obviously, while drinking is permitted as described, being drunk and/or disorderly in public is not permitted!) Clothing – “regular” clothing, and high-end designer clothing and sportswear is easy to find. Bathing Suits – these are easier to find in the UAE than in Saudi Arabia, but you will want to bring at least one with you. Electronics – electronic stores abound, selling the latest in computers, audio, and video equipment. Videos and DVDs are also available, but these may have been censored. Jewelry – jewelry shopping in the gold souqs is very popular for expatriates (and locals)
