Saudi Arabia is set to open its first alcohol store in Riyadh, marking a significant departure from its longstanding restrictions. A source familiar with the plans told the media, “Customers will have to register via a mobile app, get a clearance code from the Foreign Ministry, and respect monthly quotas with their purchases.”
This development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, aiming to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil revenue. The store, strategically placed in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, will exclusively cater to non-Muslim diplomats, adhering to strict regulations. The document emphasized that the store would be “strictly restricted” to non-Muslims.
While it remains uncertain if other non-Muslim expatriates will gain access, the move signals a notable shift in the kingdom’s approach. The store, expected to open in the coming weeks, will end the previous practice of obtaining alcohol through diplomatic mail or resorting to the black market.
The Saudi government, however, has yet to officially comment on the matter. Recent reports suggest that the government is tightening controls on alcohol imports within diplomatic consignments to prevent the “improper exchange of special goods and alcoholic beverages” at non-Muslim embassies in the country. This, in turn, may boost demand for the upcoming alcohol store.