What is included with half board and all-inclusive hotel meal plans in the UAE, including drinks, alcohol and snacks?

For a New Year stay, choose standard all-inclusive if alcoholic drinks matter: one report says alcohol was included at breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main restaurant, as well as at the hotel’s on-site bars.

The all-inclusive soft package suits guests who do not need alcohol: it includes non-alcoholic drinks, while alcohol is not part of this plan.

Do not assume snacks are free even on all-inclusive: one report says food between main meals was charged separately, apparently with roughly a 50% discount.

If the hotel is far from cafés and shops, all-inclusive can be more practical: buying alcohol separately at the bar was described as expensive. A nearby alcohol shop was also mentioned, but without a name or distance, so verify this locally.

For a breakfast-and-dinner package, request written confirmation of the drinks policy in advance. Reports conflict: one traveler said drinks with half board were charged, while another said juices, soft drinks, tea and coffee were unlimited and included.