Saudi Arabia has announced plans to open a store in Riyadh selling alcohol, a significant move as it marks the first such establishment in over 70 years.
The shop, located in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, will cater exclusively to non-Muslim expats, particularly diplomatic staff, who have traditionally relied on importing alcohol in sealed diplomatic pouches.
The decision to open the shop aims to combat the illicit trade of alcohol, which has persisted despite prohibition being in place since 1952.
This law was enacted following a tragic incident where a British diplomat was fatally shot by one of King Abdulaziz’s sons during a drunken episode.
The new store will implement strict regulations, including pre-registration for patrons, a minimum age requirement of 21, and adherence to appropriate attire.
Additionally, individuals will be limited to purchasing 240 “points” worth of alcohol per month, with different point values assigned to various types of alcohol.
Despite this development, access to alcohol remains restricted to diplomatic personnel, and there are no indications of extending privileges to ordinary foreigners residing in the kingdom.
Furthermore, Saudi law imposes severe penalties for unauthorized alcohol consumption or possession, including fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for foreigners.
The initiative is part of the broader “Vision 2030” program led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at modernizing and liberalizing Saudi society.
While other Gulf states have similar alcohol regulations, such as the UAE and Qatar allowing alcohol sales in designated establishments, there is no indication of Saudi Arabia adopting a similar approach.
The historical context behind Saudi Arabia’s strict stance on alcohol dates back to the tragic incident involving Prince Mishari bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, who fatally shot a British diplomat in 1951.
This event led to King Abdulaziz imposing a total ban on alcohol the following year, signaling a significant shift in the kingdom’s attitude towards alcohol consumption.
Source–BBC
