United Arab Emirates (UAE) Whiskey Market Overview, 2028

The drinking culture in the UAE is often associated with socialising and entertainment. Many people enjoy going out to restaurants and bars with friends and colleagues to relax and unwind over drinks. The country's vibrant nightlife scene offers a variety of venues and experiences, ranging from sophisticated lounges to energetic nightclubs. The UAE's whiskey market is driven by several factors. Firstly, the country's thriving tourism industry attracts visitors from around the world, including whisky enthusiasts, who contribute to the demand for premium and high-quality whisky. Additionally, the growing expatriate population in the UAE, which includes individuals from whisky-drinking countries, further fuels the market's growth. Furthermore, the UAE's cosmopolitan and multicultural environment has led to a rise in whisky appreciation and the emergence of whisky clubs, tastings, and events. These platforms allow whisky enthusiasts to explore different brands, exchange knowledge, and enhance their whisky-drinking experience. Whisky has become a popular choice among those seeking a sophisticated and refined drinking experience. The UAE boasts a vibrant whisky scene, with a wide range of whisky bars, lounges, and clubs offering an extensive selection of both international and rare whisky labels.

According to the research report "United Arab Emirates Market Overview, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, the United Arab Emirates market is projected to reach a market size of more than 56.32 million by 2028. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a diverse range of major whisky brands, catering to the preferences of whisky enthusiasts in the country. Some of the prominent brands available in the UAE include Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Glenfiddich, Macallan, Jack Daniel's, Jameson, Ballantine's, Maker's Mark, Yamazaki, and Talisker. These brands represent a variety of whisky styles, including blended Scotch whiskies, single malt Scotch whiskies, American bourbons, Irish whiskies, and Japanese whiskies. Each brand is known for its unique characteristics, flavour profiles, and craftsmanship. Whether one prefers the smoothness of Chivas Regal, the complexity of Macallan, or the peaty character of Talisker, whisky enthusiasts in the UAE have access to a wide selection of major brands to explore and enjoy. Country hosts whisky events like Whisky Live Dubai, offering tastings, masterclasses, and interactive experiences. Bars, restaurants, and whisky clubs also organise tastings and pairing events, providing opportunities for enthusiasts to explore different brands and styles while fostering a sense of community.

In the UAE, Scotch whisky is generally preferred by whisky enthusiasts. This includes both blended Scotch whisky and single malt Scotch whisky. The smooth and rich flavours of Scotch whisky, along with its long-standing reputation for quality and craftsmanship, make it a popular choice among consumers in the UAE. American bourbons and Irish whiskies also have a significant presence in the market and are enjoyed by whisky aficionados with different taste preferences. Ultimately, the preference for a specific type of whisky can vary among individuals based on their personal preferences and experiences. Dedicated liquor stores and specialty retailers across the UAE offer a wide selection of whisky brands and expressions. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can assist customers in choosing the right whisky based on their preferences and budget. Some of the dedicated liquor stores and specialty retailers in the UAE offering a wide selection of whisky brands include MMI (Maritime and Mercantile International), African & Eastern, Le Clos, The Cellar, Parkers, Barracuda, La Cave, Al Hamra Cellar, Spinneys Liquor, and MMI Allday. With the rise of e-commerce, online platforms have become increasingly popular for purchasing whisky in the UAE. Several dedicated online retailers and marketplaces offer a wide selection of whisky brands, making it convenient for customers to browse, compare prices, and have their purchases delivered to their doorstep. Some of the online platforms for the purchase of whisky include MMI Online, African & Eastern Online, Cellars & Co., The Cellar, and Shopinc. As the UAE is a popular travel destination, duty-free shops at airports and other travel hubs offer an extensive range of whiskies. Travellers can take advantage of duty-free prices to purchase their preferred brands or explore new ones before departing or upon arrival.

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), several regulations govern the sale and consumption of whisky. Licencing is required for establishments that sell alcoholic beverages, including whisky, and they must comply with specific regulations set by the local authorities. The legal drinking age in the UAE is 21 years old, and it is strictly prohibited for anyone below this age to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages, including whiskey. Non-Muslim residents and tourists can enjoy whiskey in licensed establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and bars, while consumption in public places or outside designated areas is not permitted. Import and distribution of whiskey are also regulated, and there are restrictions on advertising and promotion to ensure responsible consumption. The whiskey market in the UAE also faces competition from other alcoholic beverages. While whiskey has gained popularity, preferences in the region may still lean towards traditional spirits such as vodka, rum, or local specialties. This can create a challenge for whiskey brands to establish a strong foothold in the market and capture consumer interest. Furthermore, the high cost of living and the relatively affluent consumer base in the UAE can result in price sensitivity, making it essential for whiskey brands to offer products that provide value for money. Building brand awareness and educating consumers about the unique characteristics and qualities of whiskey can also be a challenge, especially among those who are less familiar with the spirit.

The UAE has witnessed a growing interest in premium spirits, including whisky, among both residents and tourists. As the country continues to develop as a global hub for business, tourism, and luxury, the demand for high-quality whisky is expected to rise. The increasing number of luxury hotels, upscale bars, and fine dining establishments in the UAE provides opportunities for whisky brands to showcase their offerings and cater to discerning consumers. Additionally, the growing number of whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs in the region indicates a rising appreciation for the craftsmanship, flavour profiles, and heritage associated with whisky. With the UAE's reputation as a cosmopolitan and multicultural destination, whisky brands have the opportunity to tap into a diverse consumer base and introduce a wide range of expressions and limited editions. To leverage this potential, whisky brands need to adapt to evolving consumer preferences, innovate in their product offerings, and engage in effective marketing strategies to establish a strong presence in the UAE market. With increasing consumer awareness and appreciation for whisky, along with the government's support for tourism and luxury experiences, the future of the whisky market in the UAE looks promising, with potential for continued growth and innovation.

Considered in this report
• Geography: United Arab Emirates
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

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