Coronavirus: Dubai Police tightens restrictions on sale of alcohol in bars and pubs

Officials reversed a decision made last week that allowed people to consume alcohol without ordering a meal

Dubai restaurants are only allowed to serve alcohol to diners who are eating at a table. Reuters

Dubai Police has tightened restrictions on the sale of alcohol in bars and pubs.

The decision means patrons can only consume alcohol if they order a meal at the same time.

Officials had allowed licensed premises to sell drinks without food as of last Friday - but reversed the decision on Wednesday.

The decision affects "bars and pubs" and was understood to mean patrons cannot order directly at bars or by hotel pools. Restaurants are not expected to be affected.

One hotel manager told The National the move had led to some premises hosting pool parties and other crowded events.

Police officials stressed the need for the hospitality industry to be responsible given the Covid-19 outbreak.

Restaurants were allowed to open after Ramadan to support Dubai's hospitality industry.

Bars, pubs and nightclubs that are not geared up to serve food are among those targeted by the new order.