How do I turn down alcohol at a work dinner?

Keep it short, polite and confident: "No thanks, I don't drink. I'll have a sparkling water." You don't owe anyone a long explanation. Most colleagues accept a simple, friendly no, and many won't even notice after the first round.

Why Muslims say no to alcohol

Alcohol is clearly forbidden in Islam. The Quran calls it something to stay away from completely, so the aim is not "just one glass" but none at all:

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِنَّمَا ٱلْخَمْرُ وَٱلْمَيْسِرُ وَٱلْأَنصَابُ وَٱلْأَزْلَـٰمُ رِجْسٌ مِّنْ عَمَلِ ٱلشَّيْطَـٰنِ فَٱجْتَنِبُوهُ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ "O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone altars [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful." Quran 5:90

Turning down a drink is not rude. It's simply part of who you are now. See Can Muslims drink alcohol?

Simple lines that work

"No thanks, I don't drink." Clear and complete. Say it with a smile.
"I'm good with this, thanks." Hold up your water or soft drink. A full glass in your hand stops most refills.
"I don't drink for religious reasons." Use it if you're comfortable; most people respect faith-based choices.
"Not tonight, but I'd love a mocktail." Turns the moment into something you both can enjoy.

If someone pushes, repeat the same line calmly. You don't need to debate. A second "No, really, I'm fine" usually ends it.

Planning ahead makes it easier

Order your own drink first, before anyone orders for the table.
Have a quiet word with the organiser or your manager beforehand, so toasts and wine pairings include a soft option for you.
For a toast, raise your water glass. That's completely normal at work events.
Check the menu for dishes cooked in wine or beer and ask the waiter if you're unsure.

Can I stay at the table?

Many scholars discourage sitting at a table where alcohol is being passed around, based on a hadith in Jami' at-Tirmidhi 2801. At the same time, work dinners can be hard to avoid. Many scholars allow attending when there is a real work need, you don't drink, serve or pour, and you leave if things turn rowdy. Others advise skipping dinners centred on drinking. Choose events built around food, and leave after the meal when the evening moves on to the bar. See Can I go to a bar with friends if I only drink soda?

What about "alcohol-free" beer or wine?

Ordering a 0.0% beer can avoid questions, but scholars differ on whether it's allowed, and it can confuse colleagues who see you with a bottle. A soda, juice or mocktail is the safest choice. See Can I still drink non-alcoholic beer as a Muslim?

Key points

A short, friendly "No thanks, I don't drink" is enough.
Order a soft drink early and keep the glass full.
Raise water for toasts; nobody minds.
Leave politely when the dinner turns into a drinking session.

Tip: Being the colleague who orders a fun mocktail with a smile often earns more respect than any long explanation. Confidence is your best answer.