Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority Lowers Legal Drinking Age

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has announced a reduction in the minimum legal age for the "serving and sale" of alcoholic beverages in the emirate, from 21 to 18 years.

According to a circular issued to stakeholders and operators in the sector, the change took effect on January 1, 2026. The sale or service of alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age remains prohibited.

The circular emphasizes that the decision was made in accordance with local regulations and in light of RAKTDA's role as the regulatory body overseeing the "transport, serving, and sale" of alcohol in the emirate.

This development follows amendments to the federal Civil Transactions Law, which lowered the age of legal capacity/adulthood in the UAE from 21 to 18 years (based on the Gregorian calendar). Ras Al Khaimah has now aligned its legal drinking age with this new standard.

Clarifications released state that the amendment does not change the rules regarding the location and timing of alcohol consumption. Consumption remains limited to licensed premises (and home consumption after purchase from authorized retailers).

The decision may have direct practical implications for families and young people residing in Ras Al Khaimah – including a segment of the Iranian expatriate community in the UAE who live or conduct business in the emirate – regarding sales regulations, ID verification, and compliance with retailer regulations.