Saudi Arabia has partially lifted its decades-long alcohol prohibition, allowing affluent non-Muslim expatriates to purchase liquor from a single, discreet store in Riyadh, as part of broader social reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 initiative. This shift marks a significant, albeit limited, change in the kingdom’s strict social policies aimed at attracting foreign investment and talent.
Saudi Arabia, where alcohol has been banned for over 70 years since the early 1950s, is now permitting non-Muslim foreign residents who earn a monthly income of at least 50,000 riyals (approximately $13,300) to buy alcohol from the country’s only liquor outlet in the capital city of Riyadh. To gain access, individuals must present a salary certificate as proof of income, with the store located in the diplomatic quarter and not appearing on public maps, ensuring discretion. Guards meticulously check IDs before allowing entry, reflecting the cautious implementation of this policy change.
This move is embedded within Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, a comprehensive plan to diversify the Saudi economy away from oil dependency and modernize the nation’s image. In recent years, the kingdom has introduced a series of social reforms, such as lifting the ban on women driving and permitting public entertainment events, to boost tourism and business opportunities. The alcohol policy adjustment is seen as another strategic step to appeal to global expatriates and investors, though it remains tightly controlled.
According to reports, the liquor store initially opened last year exclusively for foreign diplomats and has since expanded access to non-Muslims holding premium residency status. The premium residency program, often called the Saudi Green Card, allows skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to live, work, and own property in the kingdom without a local sponsor, provided they meet financial, medical, and background check requirements. This initiative is designed to attract top international talent as Saudi Arabia seeks to transform its economy and society.
Social media has erupted with criticism over the new policy, with users mocking the income requirement as elitist and highlighting perceived double standards. Viral comments include phrases like ‘Salary slip for a bottle? Crazy’ and ‘Proof of income for a bottle of wine is CRAZY behaviour,’ reflecting widespread backlash against what some view as hypocrisy after decades of strict enforcement for ordinary citizens. Critics argue that the policy favors the wealthy while excluding lower-income foreign workers and Saudis, underscoring tensions between modernization efforts and social equity.
Despite the backlash, some expatriates have welcomed the change, noting that it offers a legal alternative to the black market, where alcohol was previously available at inflated prices. For instance, a premium visa holder quoted by AFP mentioned saving money by purchasing legally, and diplomats have reported busy scenes at the store, with customers leaving with multiple bottles. This indicates a clear demand among the eligible group, suggesting that the policy could have practical benefits for those it targets.
Looking ahead, there are plans to open additional liquor stores in other major cities like Jeddah and Dammam, including one in an Aramco compound in Dhahran for non-Muslim workers. However, Saudi authorities have not issued any official statements confirming these expansions, maintaining a low-key approach to social changes that avoids provoking conservative segments of society. The government’s silence reflects a strategic balance between pushing for reform and preserving social stability.
This limited alcohol access primarily targets wealthy foreigners and expatriates, raising questions about whether tourists might be included in the future as Saudi Arabia continues to promote itself as a global destination. While the current policy is restrictive, it signals a gradual opening that could pave the way for broader reforms, such as expanded access for tourists or reduced income thresholds. As the kingdom navigates the complexities of social change, this move highlights the ongoing evolution of its cultural and economic landscape under Vision 2030.
