Saudi Arabia is arranging to lift parts of its prolonged ban on liquor, allowing limited sales at around 600 designated tourist destinations starting in 2026. This significant policy change is part of the state’s widespread efforts to expand its tourism sector ahead of major global programs, including the Expo 2030 and 2034 FIFA World Cup in Riyadh.
Permitted Locations and Types of Alcohol
Alcohol will be available exclusively at licensed locations such as luxury hotels, high-end resorts, and designated zones within major tourism projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Sindalah Island. Only beverages with an alcohol content of up to 20%, including wine, beer, and cider, will be allowed. Spirits and stronger alcoholic drinks will remain prohibited.
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Strict Regulations and Consumption Rules
Consumption of alcohol will be restricted to the licensed premises only. Takeaway and retail alcohol sales will not be permitted, and public advertising of alcoholic products will remain banned. The general alcohol prohibition for Saudi citizens and Muslims will still be enforced, and religious cities such as Mecca and Medina will continue to uphold a complete ban on alcohol.
Licensed establishments will be closely monitored and must adhere to strict regulations, including employing trained staff and maintaining compliance with operational guidelines. Any breaches, such as serving alcohol to unauthorized individuals or allowing alcohol off-site, could lead to fines or closure of the establishment.
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Part of Vision 2030’s Economic Diversification Strategy
This policy shift is a component of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to reduce Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil revenues and position the country as a global destination for tourism and investment. The controlled introduction of alcohol sales is seen as a step toward attracting a wider international audience while preserving core cultural values.
Early Trials and Gradual Implementation
The upcoming policy has been made on a pilot initiative launched in January 2024, where liquor sales were banned in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter for foreign diplomats. The new licensing framework has the first public ease of liquor sanctions in seven decades.
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Alcohol Ban Will Remain During FIFA World Cup
Despite the broader changes, Saudi officials have confirmed that alcohol will not be served during the 2034 FIFA World Cup, including at hotels. In a recent statement, the Saudi ambassador to the UK emphasized the kingdom’s commitment to maintaining its cultural and religious traditions while continuing to welcome international visitors.
Also Read: Sources deny recent media reports regarding alcohol in the Kingdom
Saudi Arabia’s move to ease alcohol restrictions reflects its effort to modernize and appeal to global tourists, while still safeguarding its traditional values. The careful rollout of this policy underscores the kingdom’s intent to strike a balance between openness and cultural preservation.
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