Riyadh – May 2025
In a major shift aimed at attracting global tourists, Saudi Arabia will allow alcohol sales at nearly 600 licensed sites by 2026, according to reports.
The move comes as part of the Kingdom’s preparations for Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.
This is the most significant easing of alcohol restrictions in over 70 years.
Targeting Non-Muslim Tourists
The policy will apply exclusively to non-Muslim visitors. Alcohol will be served in designated areas like five-star hotels, luxury resorts, and tourism hubs such as NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Sindalah Island.
The beverages permitted include wine, beer, and cider with up to 20% alcohol content. Spirits and hard liquor will remain banned.
All drinks must be consumed on-site only. Selling alcohol in public, advertising it, or offering takeaway options will remain strictly prohibited.
Part of Vision 2030
This decision aligns with Vision 2030, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s long-term plan to diversify the Saudi economy.
The plan aims to shift focus from oil to tourism, entertainment, and global investment. Officials say allowing limited alcohol access is part of creating a competitive tourism environment.
Controlled Rollout
According to Saudi Moments, venues will operate under tight regulations. Only trained staff will serve drinks, and any violations such as selling to Muslims or offering takeaway will result in legal penalties or closures.
Muslim residents and citizens will continue to be prohibited from consuming alcohol. Mecca and Medina will remain alcohol-free zones under all circumstances.
Earlier Pilot in Riyadh
In January 2024, the Kingdom opened its first alcohol store in decades, limited to non-Muslim diplomats in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter.
Access is granted via a government app, with monthly purchase quotas. Mobile phones are sealed on entry. That move was part of efforts to curb black market sales among diplomats.
FIFA World Cup Stance
Despite the 2026 rollout, Saudi officials have confirmed that alcohol will not be permitted during the 2034 World Cup.
In a February 2025 interview with LBC, Saudi Ambassador Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud said:
“There is no alcohol at all… It’s a dry country.”
He emphasized that Saudi Arabia welcomes visitors but within its cultural framework.
“We don’t want to change our culture for someone else,” he added.
