Saudi Arabia Opens First Alcohol Store in Over 70 Years for Non-Muslim Diplomats

The move, part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 initiative, is seen as a step towards liberalizing Saudi society, but strict laws against alcohol consumption remain in place for the majority of the population.

Saudi Arabia is set to open its first alcohol store in over 70 years, located in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter. The store will exclusively serve non-Muslim diplomats.
Customers will need to register via a mobile app, obtain clearance from the foreign ministry, and adhere to monthly purchase quotas.
The move is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at liberalizing Saudi society and diversifying the economy beyond oil.
Despite the opening of the store, strict laws against alcohol consumption remain in place for the majority of Saudi Arabia's population. Penalties can include fines, jail time, public flogging, and deportation for unauthorized foreigners.
The opening of the store is seen by some as a step towards wider availability of alcohol in the future, which would represent a significant shift from the nationwide prohibition in place since 1952.