Recent reports suggest that the Saudi government has loosened restrictions on alcohol sales, which have been in place for decades, specifically for foreigners who can demonstrate a monthly income of at least $13,300.
In Saudi Arabia, where Islam’s holiest sites are located, alcohol consumption has long been prohibited for religious reasons. The country has historically enforced strict social norms, especially regarding women’s rights. However, since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman took power, some of these regulations have been relaxed. Notably, in 2017, the ban on women driving was lifted. Despite these changes, it remains an Islamic state governed by sharia, and officials have not confirmed reports regarding a potential increase in alcohol sales.
According to an American news source, a liquor store that previously catered exclusively to diplomats has now begun allowing affluent foreigners to purchase alcoholic beverages. This information, attributed to unnamed sources, indicates the store, located in a discreet part of Riyadh, has been in operation for about a year and is not accessible to Saudi nationals.
“To enter the country’s only liquor store in Riyadh, residents must provide proof of their income with salary certificates,” a source said. “Initially opened to foreign diplomats, the store recently expanded access to non-Muslims holding premium immigration status.”
Agence France-Presse also reported similar findings, citing anonymous sources indicating that holders of premium visas are now permitted to buy alcohol. They noted that the minimum income requirement effectively excludes many lower-income migrant workers from such access. Human rights advocates have frequently criticized the Saudi government’s treatment of domestic workers and those in low-paying jobs.
“Honestly, I was taken aback at first and couldn’t quite believe it,” one AFP source remarked about the opening of alcohol sales. “I went in and managed to buy some alcohol after verifying.”
As of now, the Saudi government has not made any official comment regarding these revelations, nor have they confirmed or denied them. Back in late November, there were reports that the government had approved the construction of two additional liquor stores for diplomatic use. One will be in Jeddah, a city often hosting international events, while another planned store in Dhahran would cater to the Aramco workforce. As reported, these outlets will also serve only non-Muslim foreigners.
These two stores were expected to open in 2026, but specific timelines have yet to be announced. Questions sent to the government about these developments received no immediate reply. Aramco also chose not to comment.
Additionally, reports indicated that liquor sales to “senior resident” foreigners in Riyadh have already commenced.
Days later, more unverified information surfaced about liquor stores, but the government did not provide any confirmation. Some reports highlighted that, despite the long-standing alcohol ban, numerous hotels and restaurants in Saudi Arabia have been established with bars that serve non-alcoholic drinks, making alcohol somewhat easier to find.
Under the Vision 2030 initiative led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil, Saudi Arabia is significantly enhancing its efforts to promote tourism and cultural events. The country has invested heavily in professional sports and is set to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Initially, upon announcing the World Cup decision, there were speculations about possible alcohol sales, but officials quickly dismissed those ideas.
Saudi Arabia’s Sports Minister has expressed that banning alcohol at such events could create a safer and more family-friendly atmosphere for fans, even though alcohol is often a common part of the football experience worldwide.
“I think some fans would appreciate having alcohol integrated into their experience,” he stated in an interview. However, he feels the absence of alcohol can also provide a safer environment.
The Crown Prince also plans to invest billions into a new city project named Neom, which aims to be a hub for music festivals, high-tech enterprises, and luxury resorts.
“Neom will rival Miami in entertainment and culture,” MBS mentioned in a recent interview.
Miami is known for its vibrant nightlife and plentiful alcohol, unlike the situation with the World Cup where officials ruled out alcohol sales. Interestingly, there are speculations that developments in Neom may not follow this restriction; some reports indicate that a seaside resort area there might allow cocktails and wine.
Joseph Bradley, CEO of NEOM Technology, has emphasized the goal of creating an attractive environment for tourism and technology markets without confirming specific laws related to alcohol sales.
