Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal substances are strict in the United Arab Emirates and convicted offenders may be subject to severe prison sentences and fines. Legislation enacted in January 1996, imposes the death sentence for convicted drug traffickers. Doctor's prescriptions should be carried along with any medication that is brought into the country. UAE authorities have been known to arrest travelers upon their arrival here and, based on recent prior drug use, to prosecute these travelers. Penalties are generally assessed according to religious law.
Alcohol is served at bars in most major hotels.
However, this alcoholic beverage service is for those persons who are residing at the hotel. Persons not residing at the hotel who come in to use the facilitys bar technically are required to have their own personal liquor license. Liquor licenses are obtainable only by persons who possess UAE residency permits. Drinking and driving is considered a serious offense. Children of UAE fathers automatically acquire UAE citizenship at birth and must enter the UAE on UAE passports.