Does Emirates Airlines Serve Alcohol

Emirates Airlines stands out with its remarkable selection of 96 premium wines, champagne, and spirits. The airline serves these beverages across 140 destinations, making it a leader in the aviation industry’s in-flight drink service.

The airline’s alcohol service extends to all cabin classes – economy, business, and first class. Passengers can sip everything from simple spirits and beer to premium offerings like Dom Perignon champagne. First-class selections feature wines that retail between $350 and $500. A380 aircraft take luxury further with exclusive onboard bars for business and first-class passengers.

This piece takes you through Emirates’ alcohol service with details about drink menus in different cabin classes, serving times, and age restrictions. You’ll find information about service adjustments during Ramadan and learn why Emirates continues its alcohol service while other regional carriers might not. The guide also highlights specific drink options available in each service class.

Emirates Alcohol Policy: The Basics

Emirates Airlines serves alcoholic beverages on most routes, and this service is available in all cabin classes. The airline has clear policies about alcohol consumption that focus on passenger safety and local regulation compliance.

Age restrictions on Emirates flights

Emirates requires passengers to be at least 21 years old to drink alcohol during flights. This matches Dubai’s regulations, where the airline has its main hub. The crew may ask for ID to check passenger age and ensure everyone follows these rules.

Routes where alcohol is served

You can get alcoholic drinks on most international Emirates flights. However, flights to and from Sharjah don’t serve alcohol because drinking is not allowed in that emirate. While you can drink during flights, local laws at your destination might be substantially different.

The airline follows these specific guidelines for alcohol service:

• All cabin classes offer complimentary alcoholic beverages
• The airline strictly prohibits disruptive behavior from intoxicated passengers
• Passengers can pack alcoholic beverages in checked bags if the alcohol content is between 24% and 70%, up to 5 liters per person

Emirates shows its steadfast dedication to passenger comfort while honoring local customs and regulations. So service changes might happen during religious events or on certain routes. The crew receives training to monitor alcohol consumption and make sure everyone has a comfortable experience.

Alcohol Service in Different Cabins

Emirates offers distinct alcoholic beverage experiences in each cabin class. The options range from simple spirits to premium selections that cost hundreds of dollars per bottle.

Economy class drink options

Economy passengers can enjoy popular spirits and beers throughout their flight. The cabin serves prominent brands such as Smirnoff Vodka No. 21 Red, Bombay Sapphire Gin, and Baileys Original Irish Cream. Plus, passengers can choose from various beers like Heineken, Stella Artois, and Tiger.

Business class bar service

The drinking experience reaches new heights in business class with exclusive access to the onboard lounge on A380 aircraft. The bar’s premium collection features Gray Goose Vodka from France and Glenmorangie Original 10-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Business class passengers can sample exceptional spirits like Chivas Regal 18-Year-Old Whiskey instead of standard selections.

The business class bar’s most requested cocktails are:

• Bloody Mary
• Mojito
• Kir Royal
• Cosmopolitan
• Aperol Spritz

First class premium selections

First class presents an extraordinary collection of premium beverages. The cabin serves Dom Perignon champagne with vintages that perfectly match their curated caviar service. Passengers can enjoy Stoli Elit 18 Vodka from Latvia and The Botanist Hebridean Strength Gin from Scotland.

The Hennessey Paradis cognac stands out as a remarkable blend of fine old cognacs from multiple vintages. First-class passengers can savor exclusive wines like the 2014 Eisele Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa, which costs between USD 350.00 and USD 500.00.

First-class passengers maintain their premium status at the onboard lounge. The cabin crew brings first-class exclusive beverages to the bar area on request, so passengers can enjoy their premium selections anywhere in the aircraft.

Complete Emirates Drink Menu 2025

Emirates maintains one of aviation’s largest drink menus and has invested AED 290 million in the last decade to curate its premium beverage selection.

Beer and wine selection

The airline’s wine cellar features 96 premium wines, champagnes, ports, and sweet wines. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy these refined selections while beer lovers have access to popular brews like Heineken, Stella Artois, and Tiger. Business Class passengers get exclusive access to Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc Beer from France.

Spirit options

The airline’s collection spans 40 spirits that cater to a variety of priorities. Premium spirits include The Dalmore, Woodford Reserve, and Johnnie Walker whiskeys.

First Class passengers enjoy exclusive offerings like Stoli Elit 18 Vodka from Latvia and The Botanist Hebridean Strength Gin from Scotland. Business Class travelers can experience Gray Goose Vodka and Glenmorangie Original 10-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Most popular spirits by cabin class in 2023 were:

• Chivas Royal Salute 21 Year Old Whiskey – First Class favorite
• Chivas Regal 18 Year Old Whiskey – Business Class choice
• Dewar’s White Label Whiskey – Premium Economy and Economy choice

Signature cocktails

Trained cabin crew members prepare 14 handcrafted cocktails. First and Business Class passengers gravitate toward the classic Bloody Mary, refreshing Mojito, Kir Royal, Cosmopolitan, Aperol Spritz, and the signature Emirates Classic Champagne Cocktail.

Each cocktail highlights premium spirits from the onboard selection. The Breakfast Martini combines Sipsmith London Dry Gin with orange marmalade, while the Espresso Martini blends Belvedere Vodka with Tia Maria and fresh espresso. The Classic Martini stays true to tradition with Sipsmith London Dry Gin and a touch of Martini Extra Dry.

Emirates’ steadfast dedication to exceptional in-flight experiences shines through their drink menu, which ranges from aperitifs like Martini and Campari to premium cognacs from Hennessy and Tesseron.

When Alcohol is Served During Flights

Emirates serves alcohol on their flights based on meal times and what passengers ask for. Knowing these service patterns helps travelers plan their flight experience better.

Meal service timing

The drink schedule matches when meals are served. Flight attendants bring pre-dinner drinks before the main course. Passengers can choose wine, beer, or spirits with their multicourse meals.

The timing works a bit differently for special meals. Passengers with special meals might need to ask for drinks separately since beverages usually come with standard meals. Travelers can get extra drinks during the pre-dinner service to match their preferred timing.

First Class and Business Class passengers get exceptional service. These premium cabins have dedicated bar areas with drinks available throughout the flight. Trained crew members can make 18 different cocktails using premium spirits.

Between meal requests

Emirates has a flexible drink policy outside regular meal times. Passengers can get beverages in several ways:

• Ring the call bell for direct service
• Visit crew members in the galley
• Ask during regular cabin checks

Economy Class passengers get free drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. This service continues between scheduled meals so passengers can enjoy drinks whenever they want.

Business and First Class passengers have more flexibility with drinks. The onboard lounge works as a social space where premium travelers can order from many spirits, wines, and signature cocktails. Flight attendants can handle specific brand requests, though availability depends on the route.

Emirates offers celebration packages that need advance booking for special occasions. Passengers should arrange champagne service 48 hours before their flight. These packages come with options like a 20cl bottle of Moët et Chandon Brut Impérial and cake selections.

Tea and coffee usually come after meals, but timing changes based on flight length and route. Regular travelers suggest telling cabin crew about drink choices early in the flight, especially for specific wines or spirits.

Special Circumstances and Restrictions

Emirates’ alcohol service varies based on special circumstances, and knowing these details will help you plan your trip better. Religious events, route limitations, and other factors affect when and where drinks are available.

Ramadan alcohol service

Emirates keeps most of its regular alcohol service during Ramadan with a few changes. You can still get alcoholic drinks in lounges and on flights during this holy month. All the same, the service adapts to respect local traditions.

The cabin crew in First and Business Class serves drinks more subtly. Flight attendants often pour beverages in the galley rather than at passenger seats. The A380 bar runs as usual, but bottles stay under the counter instead of being displayed out in the open.

Flight routes with no alcohol

Emirates serves alcohol on most routes, but some destinations have strict rules. These routes run as completely dry flights:

• All flights to and from Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina, and Dammam)
• Services to and from Sharjah
• Routes where local laws ban alcohol service

It’s worth mentioning that even when drinks are available during flights, local laws at destinations can be substantially different. The UAE takes public intoxication seriously – you could face AED 2,000 in fines or spend up to a month in jail.

Medical conditions and alcohol

Medical factors are vital in Emirates’ alcohol service policies. The airline’s medical team points out several health considerations about drinking during flights.

The World Health Organization’s WRIGHT report shows that healthy travelers face no extra risk from flying compared to other transport types, but staying hydrated is vital. The cabin crew suggests drinking water and juices regularly.

Emirates has detailed medical kits and trained staff ready for emergencies. The airline helps passengers with various medical needs, but you need to let them know:

• 48 hours before departure for standard medical requirements
• 96 hours for more complex medical needs

Alcohol affects people differently in the air than on the ground. Lower oxygen levels at cruising altitude can make drinks hit harder. The cabin crew gets special training to watch alcohol consumption and keep passengers safe throughout the flight.

Anyone with specific health concerns should check with their doctor before flying. Emirates’ medical information form (MEDIF) helps evaluate your needs and ensures you get proper support during your trip.

Emirates is a global leader in premium beverage service. Their impressive collection of 96 wines and 40 spirits, combined with well-trained cabin crew and dedicated bar areas, will give passengers an exceptional drinking experience in all cabin classes.

The first-class cabin offers exclusive drinks like Dom Perignon champagne and Hennessey Paradis cognac. Business class travelers can enjoy premium spirits at the sophisticated onboard lounge. Even in economy class, you’ll find complimentary access to popular brands like Bombay Sapphire and Baileys.

While alcohol availability might change based on routes and circumstances, Emirates maintains high service standards across their network. The drinking age requirements and local regulations are different for each destination. On top of that, your body processes alcohol differently at high altitudes compared to ground level.

Knowing these policies helps you plan your trip better and make smart choices about your in-flight drinks. No matter which class you fly, Emirates will make sure you can toast to your trip in style.

FAQs about if does Emirates Airlines serve alcohol:

Does Emirates serve alcohol in Economy Class?

Yes, Emirates serves alcohol in Economy Class on most international routes. Passengers can enjoy a selection of wines, beers, and spirits as part of the Emirates alcohol menu economy. Complimentary drinks, including cocktails, are available throughout the flight.

Can you get alcohol on an Emirates flight?

Yes, alcohol is available on all Emirates flights except for specific routes to countries where alcohol consumption is restricted. Does Emirates Airlines serve alcohol? Yes, they provide a range of premium beverages across all cabin classes, ensuring a luxurious in-flight experience.

Are cocktails free on Emirates flights?

Yes, cocktails are complimentary on most Emirates flights. Whether traveling in Economy, Business, or First Class, passengers can enjoy mixed drinks from the Emirates alcohol menu economy or premium selections in higher classes. Special drinks, like champagne, may be limited to certain classes.

Is alcohol legal in Emirates?

Alcohol is legal in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) but is regulated. While Emirates alcohol is served on flights, consumption in public spaces within the UAE is restricted. Visitors can buy alcohol in licensed venues or duty-free shops.

Is Emirates a dry airline?

No, Emirates is not a dry airline. Does Emirates Airlines serve alcohol? Yes, it offers a full range of alcoholic beverages on most flights. However, flights to certain destinations, like Saudi Arabia, may not serve alcohol due to local laws.

Can you get alcohol in Economy Class?

Yes, Emirates serves alcohol in Economy Class at no additional cost. The Emirates alcohol menu economy includes wines, spirits, and beer, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy a drink during their flight.

Does Emirates Airlines serve wine?

Yes, Emirates serves wine across all classes, including Economy. The airline carefully curates its wine selection, featuring labels from renowned vineyards. Wine service is part of the Emirates alcohol menu economy, making it accessible to all passengers.

Which emirate does not allow alcohol?

Sharjah is the only emirate in the UAE where alcohol is completely banned. While Emirates alcohol is served on flights, visitors in Sharjah cannot legally purchase or consume alcohol. Other emirates, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have regulated sales through licensed venues.

Can Economy Class use the bar on Emirates?

No, the onboard bar is exclusive to Business and First Class passengers on the Airbus A380. However, Economy Class passengers can still enjoy beverages from the Emirates alcohol menu economy, which includes a variety of wines, spirits, and cocktails served at their seats.

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