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Riyadh Store Quietly Sells Alcohol to Foreign Residents

12/6/2025

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A Riyadh store began selling whiskey and champagne to foreign residents with a premium residency permit, despite Saudi Arabia's alcohol ban of more than 70 years.
The unmarked shop serves diplomats and affluent foreigners with the premium residency permit, and customers report the activity anonymously due to sensitivities.
No public announcement has been made, but the store's surge in business suggests a shift in the kingdom's approach to alcohol.

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Story summary

A Riyadh store began selling whiskey and champagne to foreign residents with a premium residency permit, despite Saudi Arabia's alcohol ban of more than 70 years.
The unmarked shop serves diplomats and affluent foreigners with the premium residency permit, and customers report the activity anonymously due to sensitivities.
No public announcement has been made, but the store's surge in business suggests a shift in the kingdom's approach to alcohol.