Saudi Arabia Permits Wealthy Foreign Residents to Buy Alcohol After 70-Year Ban

Saudi Arabia has begun allowing a select group of wealthy foreign residents to legally purchase alcohol for the first time in more than 70 years. This development, which has not been formally announced by the Saudi government, was confirmed by several international news outlets, including the BBC and Bloomberg. The change is taking place in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, where a discreet shop now sells alcoholic beverages to non-Muslim foreign residents who meet specific criteria.

Alcohol sales have been banned in Saudi Arabia since 1952, following a royal decree by King Ibn Saud. The prohibition has been strictly enforced under Islamic law and has shaped the country’s conservative social norms for decades. Until recently, even diplomats could only access alcohol through diplomatic shipments or illegal channels.

The new policy began quietly in January 2024 with the opening of an alcohol shop in Riyadh’s diplomatic district. Initially, only non-Muslim diplomats were allowed to buy beer, wine, and spirits, and even then under strict conditions. Over time, access has expanded to include wealthy non-Muslim expatriates who hold premium residency status or can prove a high monthly income.

According to reports from Arab Times Online and other sources, eligibility to purchase alcohol is tied to holding a special residence permit known as “premium residency.” This permit was introduced in 2019 as part of efforts to attract skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs to the kingdom. Applicants must often demonstrate a monthly income of at least 50,000 riyals (about $13,300) to qualify for access.

The shop itself operates under tight security and remains unmarked. Customers are subject to eligibility checks before entering. Photography is prohibited inside the premises, and visitors are not allowed to bring phones into the store.

This cautious opening is seen as part of broader reforms led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. These reforms aim to diversify Saudi Arabia’s oil-dependent economy and attract foreign investment and talent as part of the Vision 2030 plan. Vision 2030 has already brought significant changes such as lifting the ban on women driving and hosting major entertainment events.

The decision to allow limited alcohol sales reflects a pragmatic approach by Saudi authorities. By restricting access to wealthy non-Muslim foreigners and maintaining strict controls, the government seeks to balance economic modernization with traditional cultural values. The move is also intended to make Saudi Arabia more attractive for international businesspeople and long-term expatriates who may otherwise be deterred by the country’s strict social regulations.

While there has been no official public statement from Saudi authorities about this policy shift, its implementation marks a significant change in one of the world’s most conservative societies. The expansion of alcohol access remains limited and highly regulated, but it signals a willingness by Saudi leaders to adapt some longstanding rules in pursuit of economic growth and global engagement.