Saudi Arabia is breaking a 70-year alcohol prohibition by opening a shop in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, exclusively for non-Muslim expatriates, specifically diplomatic staff. This move is part of Saudi Arabia's "Vision 2030" initiative, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aiming to modernize the kingdom. The shop will have strict guidelines, including age restrictions, dress codes, and monthly purchase limits. However, it does not indicate a broader shift in alcohol policies for the general population. Penalties for unauthorized alcohol possession or consumption remain severe. The initiative showcases Saudi Arabia's commitment to gradual transformation while balancing tradition with modernization.
In a significant departure from a longstanding prohibition on alcohol, Saudi Arabia is set to open a shop in Riyadh dedicated to selling alcoholic beverages. This marks a historic moment, breaking a 70-year dry spell. The store, located in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, is exclusively targeted at non-Muslim expatriates, particularly diplomatic staff. This development aims to counter the illicit trade of alcohol and is part of Saudi Arabia's broader initiative known as "Vision 2030," led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at modernizing and liberalizing the kingdom.
The clientele for this unprecedented venture will be limited to diplomatic staff, and interested individuals must register and receive government clearance before gaining access to the store. Furthermore, strict guidelines will be enforced, including an age restriction of 21 and above, a dress code requirement, and restrictions on sending proxies for purchases. The monthly purchase limitations have been set, with patrons allowed up to 240 "points" of alcohol per month. A liter of spirits will account for six points, a liter of wine for three points, and a liter of beer for one point.
While the move is groundbreaking, it is important to note that it does not signal a broader shift in alcohol policies for the general population in Saudi Arabia. Ordinary foreigners in the kingdom, without diplomatic privileges, will officially remain without access to alcohol.
This initiative comes as part of a broader strategy to curb the uncontrolled exchange of alcohol and introduce a regulated framework for diplomats to bring in specific quantities. Diplomatic staff, for years, have relied on sealed official packages known as diplomatic pouches to import limited amounts of alcohol.
The implementation of this alcohol-selling shop aligns with the broader efforts to transform and liberalize Saudi society. However, it is crucial for those who indulge in alcohol to be cautious about adhering to local laws and regulations, as penalties for unauthorized possession or consumption of alcohol in Saudi Arabia include fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for foreigners.
This development reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to a gradual transformation, balancing tradition with modernization, and underscores its willingness to adapt to evolving societal norms while maintaining cultural sensitivities.
Saudi Arabia is set to open a shop in Riyadh selling alcohol, breaking a 70-year prohibition.
The store is located in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter and is exclusively for non-Muslim expatriates, specifically diplomatic staff.
This move is part of Saudi Arabia's broader initiative, "Vision 2030," led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at modernizing and liberalizing the kingdom.
The clientele will be limited to diplomatic staff, requiring registration and government clearance.
Strict guidelines include an age restriction of 21 and above, a dress code, and restrictions on sending proxies for purchases.
Monthly purchase limitations are set, with patrons allowed up to 240 "points" of alcohol per month.
Diplomatic staff have traditionally used sealed official packages known as diplomatic pouches to import limited amounts of alcohol.
This initiative does not signal a broader shift in alcohol policies for the general population in Saudi Arabia.
Penalties for unauthorized possession or consumption of alcohol in Saudi Arabia include fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for foreigners.
The move reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to a gradual transformation, balancing tradition with modernization, and adapting to evolving societal norms while maintaining cultural sensitivities.