Bourbon, Afghanistan, Death?

November 5, 2009 3:44 PM

Bringing alcohol to Afghanistan: worth it? Risks? Fines?

So, lets say you are flying to Afghanistan tonight (via Dubai) - what are the risks of packing a bottle of bourbon?

(this is not hypothetical :)

posted by tmcw to travel & transportation around Afghanistan (10 answers total)

This would suggest that you have to buy booze in Afghanistan, not bring it in.

But, seriously, check whatever governmental agency gave your visa, or check with whoever is organizing your trip, etc.
posted by dfriedman at 3:50 PM on November 5, 2009

There's plenty of alcohol readily available in Kabul. Bars and restaurants serve foreigners. Not sure about other areas. The German military forces are allowed beer, at least.

I would be somewhat less concerned if I were flying UNHAS, but wouldn't risk it on Ariana, Safi or Kam.

If you are working in any form for the US Government (even through a contractor) be aware that you are subject to strict rules regarding substances and conduct.
posted by charmcityblues at 4:07 PM on November 5, 2009

A friend was there for months. There's plenty of alcohol. Not sure I'd want Saudi officers to see it either.
posted by Ironmouth at 4:13 PM on November 5, 2009

Not sure I'd want Saudi officers to see it either.

Not sure what this has to do with anything. Saudi officers have no jurisdiction either in Dubai or Afghanistan, as neither place is in Saudi Arabia.
posted by dfriedman at 4:17 PM on November 5, 2009 [2 favorites]

Careful with UAE airports, even just flying through.
posted by cftarnas at 4:44 PM on November 5, 2009

The Kabul arrivals is really disorganized, unlikely you will not be searched.
posted by Meatbomb at 4:57 PM on November 5, 2009

-not
posted by Meatbomb at 4:58 PM on November 5, 2009

Especially since it is not hypothetical, I say don't do it. Mail it home if you want to keep it. Prudence is your friend.
posted by nosila at 5:44 PM on November 5, 2009

cftarnas has never been to a dubai airport. there is a cornucopia of alcohol for sale in the duty free stores in both terminal 1 and terminal 2. the waiting area and exit gate for the flights to afghanistan are located literally 50 meters from several metric tonnes of high grade booze.
posted by thewalrus at 6:31 PM on November 5, 2009

Very true, I have not been to that airport - just saying be careful going through if you are not sure of the legality of the substances you are carrying.
posted by cftarnas at 8:08 PM on November 5, 2009