Saudi Arabia, long known for its strict alcohol ban, has quietly allowed alcohol sales for a select group of wealthy foreign residents, marking a notable shift in the kingdom’s controlled approach to modernization and international business.

Alcohol Sales Now Available in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter

The change is limited to a single official liquor store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, which previously served only non-Muslim diplomats. Access has now been expanded to include wealthy non-Muslim foreign residents, particularly those with Premium Residency or high monthly earnings.

While this marks a relaxation of the country’s longstanding alcohol restrictions, ordinary Saudi citizens and most residents remain prohibited from purchasing alcohol.

Why This Change Matters

Saudi Arabia’s easing of alcohol rules is part of a broader effort to attract international tourism, investment, and luxury business. The kingdom has been actively modernizing its economy under its Vision 2030 plan, including:

- Expanding cultural and entertainment options

- Hosting international events

- Developing luxury resorts and tourism infrastructure

Allowing controlled alcohol sales for foreign residents aligns with these initiatives, providing a familiar environment for high-end travelers and investors while maintaining traditional restrictions for the local population.

How the Policy Works

Key points about the policy include:

- Restricted access: Only non-Muslim foreign residents with specific residency or income criteria can purchase alcohol.

- Single authorized location: The only legal outlet is the liquor store in the Diplomatic Quarter of Riyadh.

- Controlled consumption: Alcohol remains banned in public areas, for Saudi citizens, and for those not meeting the eligibility criteria.

This ensures the policy is a targeted exception rather than a nationwide liberalization.

Implications for Tourists and Foreign Residents

The limited easing could affect:

- Luxury tourism: High-end hotels and resorts may offer alcohol legally in restricted settings.

- Business travel: International investors and corporate visitors will have access to alcohol in controlled environments.

- Foreign resident life: Eligible residents now have legal access for personal consumption without fear of breaking Saudi law.

Visitors and residents should continue to respect local laws, as violations outside these controlled areas remain illegal.

Broader Context

Saudi Arabia’s incremental easing of alcohol restrictions reflects the kingdom’s careful balancing of religious and cultural norms with economic modernization. This follows other recent reforms, such as:

- Greater entertainment and cultural events

- Relaxed rules on women’s mobility and employment

- Investment in international tourism projects like NEOM

The policy highlights Saudi Arabia’s strategy of gradual, controlled reform rather than abrupt cultural shifts.

Takeaways

- Alcohol is now legally available for select wealthy foreign residents, but not the general population.

- Access is highly regulated, restricted to one official store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter.

- The move is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader modernization and tourism strategy.

Source: BBC Worklife