Saudi Arabia is quietly increasing alcohol sales

This move is being seen as a sign of change in the once ultra-conservative kingdom, according to the U.S. news agency AP.

Reports say there has been no official government announcement of the decision, but news of it has spread. Long lines of cars and people are now visible outside the secret, unmarked store located in the Diplomatic Quarter of Riyadh, the Saudi capital.
 

The store was opened in January 2024 for non-Muslim diplomats. Under the new rule, non-Muslim foreigners holding a premium residency permit can buy alcohol. These permits are granted to highly skilled foreigners, investors, and entrepreneurs.
 

In Saudi Arabia, the home of Islam’s holiest sites, alcohol has been prohibited since the early 1950s. The store is considered a cautious, controlled experiment in alcohol sales.
 

The kingdom’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, along with his father King Salman, is pursuing dramatic liberalization policies aimed at boosting tourism, increasing international business, and reducing dependence on crude oil revenues.
 

Under Sharia law, the kingdom has opened cinemas, allowed women to drive, and hosted large music festivals. However, political dissent and differing opinions remain strictly punishable, even by death. Alcohol is still banned for the general public.
 

The unmarked store operates like a duty-free shop. Its ownership is undisclosed, security is tight, and every buyer is verified and screened. Mobile phones and cameras are prohibited inside, and staff even check whether glasses contain smart devices.
 

AP spoke to several customers leaving the store, who requested anonymity due to the social taboo around alcohol. They said prices are very high. Diplomats are exempt from taxes, but premium residency holders are not.

Customers reported that the store is well-stocked, though beer and wine are limited.
 

The premium residency permit was created to attract world-class talent. Unlike other residencies, Saudi sponsorship is not required; benefits include buying property, starting a business, and sponsoring family members. Eligibility requires high income or significant investment.
 

Saudi and other residents who wish to drink alcohol often travel to nearby Bahrain, where alcohol is legal for Muslims and non-Muslims. During weekends and festivals, visitors from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region flock there. A more expensive alternative is Dubai in the UAE.
 

Some others buy smuggled alcohol, which is extremely costly, or homemade alcohol, which is often risky and prepared with unsafe ingredients.
 

In Saudi Arabia, some enjoy alcohol-free beverages or post photos of their drinks on social media. During major events, long lines are seen at alcohol-free beer stands.
 

The kingdom’s founder, King Abdulaziz, banned alcohol sales following a 1951 incident in which his son, Prince Mishari, killed British Vice Consul Cyril Osman in Jeddah while drunk.