In a significant move towards expanding its appeal for tourism and business, Saudi Arabia is set to open its inaugural alcohol store in Riyadh, exclusively catering to non-Muslim diplomats.
Spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this initiative is aligned with the broader Vision 2030 plan aimed at transforming the nation’s economy beyond its reliance on oil.
The store, situated in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, a hub for embassies and diplomats, will require customers to register through a mobile app, obtain a clearance code from the foreign ministry, and adhere to monthly purchase quotas.
The store’s access will be “strictly restricted” to non-Muslims, aligning with Islamic principles that prohibit alcohol consumption.
Saudi Arabia has historically enforced stringent laws against alcohol consumption, with penalties ranging from lashes, fines, and imprisonment to deportation for expatriates.
Recent reforms have seen a shift towards replacing corporal punishment with jail sentences. Until now, access to alcohol was limited to diplomatic channels or the black market.
