Saudi Arabia is planning to open two new alcohol stores exclusively for non-Muslims, marking another significant step in the Kingdom’s ongoing social and economic transformation under Vision 2030, Reuters reported.
The move comes after the quiet opening of the country’s first alcohol outlet for non-Muslim diplomats in Riyadh last year — the first such establishment since the Kingdom imposed a nationwide ban over 70 years ago.
Where the New Stores Will Be Located
According to details shared with Reuters:
- Dhahran — A store within an Aramco-owned compound, serving non-Muslim foreign employees.
- Jeddah — A separate outlet designed for non-Muslim diplomats, including personnel working with honorary consuls.
Both stores are expected to become operational in 2026, though the government has not announced an official timeline.
Expanded Access in Riyadh Outlet
The existing alcohol shop in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter has recently widened its access list. Apart from foreign diplomats, holders of Saudi Premium Residency — including investors, top-tier professionals, and entrepreneurs — are now permitted to shop there.
Before the establishment of this controlled store, alcohol in the Kingdom was typically obtained through:
- Diplomatic shipments
- Homebrewing
- Black-market networks
Link to Tourism and Vision 2030
The expansion of regulated alcohol availability is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s broader plan to position tourism as a central driver of its economy.
Saudi Arabia aims to attract 150 million tourists per year by 2030, and is aggressively investing in:
- Luxury hotels
- Entertainment zones
- Beach and coastal tourism projects
- Mega developments like Neom and the Red Sea Project
Regulated alcohol access for non-Muslims is seen as part of creating a more globally accessible tourism environment while maintaining religious restrictions for the general population.
Reflecting Rapid Social Change
Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has witnessed sweeping reforms over the past decade. Activities once entirely banned — concerts, cinemas, mixed-gender gatherings, festivals, sporting events — are now routine.
The introduction of controlled alcohol outlets is viewed as another milestone in this broader modernisation wave, though alcohol will remain strictly off-limits for Saudi citizens.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
