Expanded Access for Select Foreigners
Saudi Arabia has reportedly eased its long-standing alcohol restrictions, allowing a broader category of non-Muslim foreign residents to purchase alcoholic beverages. Initially, in January 2024, the Kingdom opened its first liquor store in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats. This measure was introduced to regulate the illicit trade of alcohol previously imported via diplomatic channels.
More recently, access to this store has been expanded. Non-Muslim holders of premium residency visas are now permitted to make purchases. This status is typically granted to affluent or highly skilled expatriates who meet specific conditions, including a one-time payment of 800,000 riyals (approximately $213,000). Furthermore, non-Muslim expatriates earning a minimum monthly salary of 50,000 riyals (approximately $13,300) are also eligible, with store staff verifying salary details through a Saudi government platform. Customers are required to register via a mobile app, obtain a clearance code, and adhere to monthly purchase quotas.
Future Plans for Tourism Zones
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia plans to further liberalize alcohol access in designated tourist areas. By 2026, the Kingdom intends to permit limited alcohol consumption, specifically wine and beer only, in approximately 600 designated tourist zones. These areas will include five-star hotels, luxury resorts, and major tourism developments such as NEOM and Red Sea Global. Spirits and beverages exceeding 20% alcohol content will remain prohibited. Consumption will be strictly limited to on-premise within these licensed venues, with off-premise sales and public consumption remaining banned.
Vision 2030 and Economic Diversification
These policy adjustments are integral to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030, a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at diversifying Saudi Arabia's economy away from oil, boosting tourism, and attracting foreign investment and talent. The Kingdom aims to attract 100 million visitors annually by 2030 and is preparing to host significant international events, including Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034. The gradual and cautious approach to easing alcohol restrictions reflects a balance between modernization efforts and the preservation of cultural and religious sensitivities in the birthplace of Islam.
Despite these changes, the nationwide ban on alcohol, which has been in effect since 1952, generally remains for the majority of the Saudi population. The government has not made official public announcements regarding the latest expansions, indicating a strategy of quiet implementation.
5 Comments
Noir Black
Hypocrisy at its finest. One rule for the rich, another for everyone else.
KittyKat
While these changes will undoubtedly boost tourism and foreign investment, the stark contrast in access for wealthy expatriates versus locals raises questions about social equity. It's a tricky balance between economic goals and traditional values.
Loubianka
Great for tourism and international events like Expo 2030.
Raphael
What about the social impact? This opens a dangerous door.
Africa
It's understandable that Saudi Arabia wants to diversify its economy and attract visitors. But focusing exclusively on premium residents and luxury tourism zones highlights a commercial rather than a truly progressive social agenda.