Craft by Side Hustle: An Innovative Brew in Abu Dhabi's Alcohol Industry

Abu Dhabi has marked a significant milestone in its hospitality and tourism industry with the opening of its commercial beer brewery, Craft by Side Hustle. This launch is not just about expanding culinary options in the region but signals a transformative moment for the alcohol industry in the United Arab Emirates.

The Craft by Side Hustle brewpub, which is slated to debut on Abu Dhabi's upscale Al Maryah Island, stands as the first operation permitted to produce and sell alcoholic beverages on its premises in the region. This follows a regulatory change in 2021 that permitted licence holders in Abu Dhabi to ferment alcoholic drinks on-site for consumers.

This development exemplifies the broader trend of liberalization in the socially conservative laws of the UAE and its neighboring Gulf states as they diversify their economies beyond oil dependency. The brewpub is yet another forward step the UAE has taken towards easing regulations around socially-sensitive areas like fertility treatments, IVF, and even casino gaming.

The ambitious venture of Craft by Side Hustle began on the shared passion of its founders, including Chad McGehee and his partners, united in addressing the lack of diverse beer options in the UAE. The brand began by producing various types of beer and spirits in Pennsylvania for the expatriate palate in the Gulf before importing and selling them in the UAE.

Now, the brewpub is set to complement its exclusive range of beers with a taste of southern comfort, offering dishes from southern Louisiana in an impressive 250-seat dining area. With a picturesque view of the brewing equipment and a capacity to produce approximately 25,000 pints a month, this establishment is not just a restaurant but an immersive experience.

Their beers, expected to be sold at around 45 dirhams each, and the spirits made under the Side Hustle label, will be featured alongside a diverse cocktail menu. The craft brewing operations aim to produce 75 different beer styles within the next year, though the selection on tap will vary between five to ten at any given time.

Set within the luxurious setting of The Galleria complex, Craft by Side Hustle will be in good company, surrounded by high-end dining and entertainment establishments, contributing to Abu Dhabi's appeal as a premium lifestyle and tourist destination.

As the UAE continues to refine its approach to tourism and lifestyle, adjusting to the demand for amenities familiar to expatriates and global travelers, the opening of establishments like Craft by Side Hustle could prove to be a significant economic move.

With Craft by Side Hustle paving the way, the potential now exists for a thriving craft beer scene in Abu Dhabi, mirroring trends seen in Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, and other parts of the Middle East. This could signal the beginning of a new and vibrant chapter in the UAE's narrative as a cosmopolitan beacon in the Gulf.