Saudi Arabia Expands Alcohol Access for Foreigners, Quietly Shifting Social Norms
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In a significant move, Saudi Arabia has begun constructing two liquor stores in major cities, Jeddah and Dammam, catering to non-Muslim customers. This development reflects the kingdom's ongoing efforts to relax social restrictions, marking another step towards a more open and inclusive society. The new liquor shops will join a store already operating in Riyadh, which initially sold alcohol exclusively to foreign diplomats but has since opened its doors to non-Muslim residents holding a special type of permit under the Premium Residency program. According to sources, a foreign resident with this permit has successfully purchased liquor from the Riyadh shop. While the Saudi government has not publicly confirmed the project, insiders indicate that the government may also be revising its rules to allow more foreign residents to purchase alcohol. This move is seen as part of the kingdom's broader strategy to become a more attractive destination for foreign talent, which is essential for driving the Vision 2030 diversification agenda. Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has been gradually easing social restrictions, including the lifting of the ban on women driving and the permission for public entertainment, music, and gender mixing. The crown prince's efforts to open the country to more foreign visitors and diversify the oil-dependent economy are gaining momentum, despite the challenges posed by the country's conservative social norms.
