By Muslim Mirror Web Desk
Saudi Arabia is set to inaugurate its inaugural alcohol store in the capital, Riyadh, marking a significant departure from its conservative traditions. The establishment, located in the Diplomatic Quarter, is designed exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats, aligning with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s efforts to open the nation to tourism and business. As a key facet of Vision 2030, the country’s ambitious post-oil economic diversification plan, this move reflects a broader agenda to modernize and attract international investment.
To access the alcohol store, customers must register through a mobile app, secure a clearance code from the foreign ministry, and adhere to monthly purchase quotas. The stringent regulations underscore the delicate balance between embracing economic reforms and respecting Islamic principles, where alcohol consumption is traditionally forbidden.
The store’s exclusive access for non-Muslims aims to cater to the expatriate community residing in the Diplomatic Quarter. However, it remains unclear whether other non-Muslim expatriates will have access. The store’s impending opening, expected in the coming weeks, symbolizes a significant shift from Saudi Arabia’s strict alcohol-related prohibitions, which have historically led to severe penalties, including lashes, fines, and deportation.
Saudi Arabia’s ongoing societal transformations include the relaxation of strict social codes, such as gender segregation and mandatory abaya-wearing for women. While these reforms, accompanied by initiatives like allowing non-religious tourism and women driving, contribute to a more open society, there is a parallel tightening of political control, evidenced by crackdowns on dissent and rivals.
As the government introduces new restrictions on alcohol imports within diplomatic consignments, the emergence of the alcohol store could see increased demand. Vision 2030’s broader goals include boosting local industries, creating logistics hubs, and generating employment opportunities for Saudi nationals. The delicate balance between modernization and religious adherence continues to shape the trajectory of Saudi Arabia’s evolving socio-economic landscape.
I think these Rich Arabs and Monarchs become habitual of consuming Alcohol while in Jeffrey Epstein’s secret island sponsored by Israel. Recently my relatives went for Umrah, one of my relative’s gold chain was stolen while performing rituals in Makkah. This incident clearly tells us whatever we heard about Saudi about its strict impartial rules and punishments all sent to trash mainly since the current monarch started ruling.