Saudi Arabia Expands Alcohol Access for Non-Muslim Residents

Saudi Arabia is set to open two new alcohol stores in 2026, located in Jeddah and Dhahran, aimed at serving non-Muslim residents, particularly foreign diplomats and employees of the state oil company Aramco. This initiative marks a significant step in the kingdom's ongoing social reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has been leading efforts to modernize the country while balancing its cultural and religious sensitivities. The new stores will follow the opening of the first alcohol shop in Riyadh, which began serving non-Muslim diplomats in January 2024, after a 73-year ban on alcohol.

Saudi Arabia to expand access to alcohol with new stores for foreign residentsReutersThe New ArabCityLabSaudi Arabia to open two new alcohol stores for non-Muslims as access gradually expandsSaudi Arabia quietly expands alcohol access to premium residency holders in RiyadhSaudi Arabia expands alcohol access for select foreign residents

Historically, alcohol has been banned in Saudi Arabia since 1952, with limited access previously restricted to diplomatic mail, the black market, or home production. The recent developments reflect a cautious approach to expanding alcohol availability, primarily targeting non-Muslim foreign residents. The Riyadh store has recently broadened its customer base to include holders of the Premium Residency program, which allows select expatriates to live and work in the kingdom without a local sponsor. This program has become instrumental in attracting foreign talent as part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 agenda, which aims to diversify the economy and boost tourism.

Saudi Arabia quietly expands alcohol access to premium residency holders in RiyadhCityLabSaudi Arabia to open two new alcohol stores for non-Muslims as access gradually expandsSaudi Arabia to expand access to alcohol with new stores for foreign residentsSaudi Arabia expands alcohol access for select foreign residentsReutersSaudi Arabia Quietly Eases Alcohol Access for Premium Visa Holders: Report

While Saudi authorities have not publicly confirmed the plans for the new stores, sources indicate that the Dhahran outlet will be accessible to non-Muslim Aramco staff, and the Jeddah store will cater to non-Muslim diplomats. The government has emphasized that no official policy change regarding alcohol in tourist settings has been announced, despite ongoing speculation. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb acknowledged the interest of international travelers in alcohol but stated, “nothing has changed yet,” leaving the door open for future developments.

Reuters

Despite the gradual easing of restrictions, the expansion of alcohol access remains a contentious issue within the kingdom. Critics argue that any move towards liberalization must be carefully managed to avoid backlash from conservative factions that uphold strict interpretations of Islamic law. The challenge for Saudi leadership lies in promoting social reforms while maintaining the country’s identity as the birthplace of Islam and the custodian of its two holiest sites.

Saudi Arabia to open two new alcohol stores for non-Muslims as access gradually expands

As Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the pace of social liberalization, particularly regarding alcohol, will likely continue to attract public debate. The kingdom is also investing heavily in tourism infrastructure, including the Red Sea Global project, which aims to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030. However, the introduction of alcohol in tourist settings remains uncertain, with officials reiterating that current policies have not changed.

Saudi Arabia to expand access to alcohol with new stores for foreign residents

• “I heard about it from friends who tried it. I went there two days ago and it actually worked,” — Premium Residency Holder

Saudi Arabia Quietly Eases Alcohol Access for Premium Visa Holders: Report

• “We do understand that some of the international travellers want to enjoy alcohol when they visit the Saudi destinations but nothing has changed yet.” — Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Tourism Minister

Saudi Arabia to expand access to alcohol with new stores for foreign residents

• “the (alcohol) store was packed” — Western Diplomat

Saudi Arabia Quietly Eases Alcohol Access for Premium Visa Holders: Report