In a historic move, Saudi Arabia is set to open its first alcohol shop in over seven decades, exclusively catering to non-Muslim expats, primarily diplomatic staff.
The shop, located in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, aims to address the issue of illicit alcohol trade.
To access the store, thirsty envoys must register in advance and obtain government clearance.
The establishment, enforcing a minimum age of 21, mandates proper attire and prohibits proxies, while monthly limits will be in place, with patrons allowed 240 points of alcohol, including one litre of spirits (six points), wine (three points), and beer (one point).
While this marks a significant shift under the “Vision 2030” initiative to liberalize Saudi society, the document specifies that this privilege will not extend to ordinary foreigners without diplomatic status.
Strict penalties for unauthorized alcohol possession remain, including fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for non-diplomats.
The announcement also hints at a forthcoming “new regulatory framework” to control the import of alcohol, preventing an uncontrolled exchange.
Quest Times further reports that diplomats who traditionally used sealed pouches for limited alcohol import, will see these reforms align with Saudi Arabia’s changing social landscape.
This unprecedented move echoes similar alcohol regimes in other Gulf states, though the document does not indicate a broader shift towards allowing alcohol sales to non-diplomats, unlike the UAE and Qatar.
It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia’s historical ban on alcohol dates back to 1952 after an unfortunate incident where a Saudi prince fatally shot a British diplomat at a function.
The recent decision signifies a progressive step under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aligning with broader efforts to modernize the country