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Saudi Arabia Denies Lifting 73-Year Alcohol Prohibition

Authorities affirm that no policy shifts are planned despite ongoing Vision2030 social reforms

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Medina, Al Madinah Province, Saudi Arabia. | Image: Pexels
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Overview

  • In May, reports based on a wine blog claimed the kingdom would lift its 73-year-old ban on alcohol ahead of hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
  • A Saudi official formally denied those reports on Monday, reaffirming that the alcohol prohibition remains in force.
  • The only legal alcohol outlet operates in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter and serves exclusively non-Muslim diplomats.
  • Saudi law bans alcohol for citizens, tourists and diplomats alike and imposes penalties ranging from fines and imprisonment to deportation and public flogging.
  • Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision2030 initiative has relaxed some social norms but continues to uphold strict religious laws on alcohol.