Next Friday hotels and restaurants asked to refrain from selling alcohol

The National -- Hotels and restaurants will refrain from serving alcohol on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 September as the emirates mark Islamic New Year.

Dubai Tourism asked licensed premises to halt serving drinks and hosting live entertainment between 6pm on Thursday and 7pm on Friday.

The move is likely to mean that Friday brunches, which are hosted by many hotels and beach clubs, will be cancelled.

Tourist companies and tour boats were also asked to refrain from hosting parties and live entertainment.

The move was implemented as a mark of respect as the country celebrates Al Hijri, known as Islamic New Year.

The other emirates are yet to confirm licensing hours but they are typically unified on religious holidays.