For decades, Saudi Arabia strictly banned alcohol sale and consumption. That ban began back in 1952, following a tragic incident involving intoxication and political pressure, so alcohol was banned to align with religious and social norms. But now, things are quietly changing. In January 2024, Saudi opened its first official liquor store in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter. Initially, only non-Muslim diplomats could buy there under strict controls.
Who Can Buy Alcohol Now?
As of late 2025, the restriction has eased further: non-Muslim foreign residents with a Premium Residency, a kind of special visa given to skilled professionals, investors, and expats, can now legally purchase alcohol from that store.
However, there’s a big ‘if’: buyers must show they earn at least 50,000 Saudi Riyals per month (around ₹12 lakh) to qualify. Only a limited number of people meet this income threshold, so access remains very exclusive.
To buy, eligible residents must also show valid residency credentials and salary proofs; staff verify income via official government systems before allowing purchase.
Analysts link this shift to Saudi’s broader economic and social reform program, Vision 2030. Under this plan, the country wants to attract global talent, foreign investment, and more expatriates, while modernizing its image. Easing alcohol restrictions, though limited, may help make Saudi more welcoming to wealthy non-Muslim professionals and investors. There are also plans to open more controlled-access liquor stores in other cities such as Jeddah and Dhahran by 2026, according to reports.
Importantly, alcohol remains banned for Saudi citizens and for most residents. The change applies only to non-Muslim expatriates who meet the strict income and residency criteria. Public consumption, casual sale, and home brewing remain prohibited.
Also, the rules are enforced quietly, there has been no official public announcement about the change; the updates have come through resident reports, media outlets, and government-linked sources.
For select non-Muslim expats in Saudi Arabia, especially high-earning foreign professionals, this marks a small step towards personal freedom and lifestyle flexibility. But for most, including citizens and lower-income residents, the strict ban remains.
This cautious loosening reflects Saudi Arabia’s delicate balancing act: trying to modernize and attract global business, while respecting religious and social traditions. The coming years will show whether more sweeping changes are ahead, or if the reforms remain limited and controlled.
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