US EditionSaudi Arabia to Open New Alcohol Stores Despite Ban, Sources Say
Two new alcohol stores will serve non-Muslims in Dhahran and Jeddah by 2026, expanding access beyond the Riyadh diplomatic outlet opened last year, officials said.
- Both stores were expected to open in 2026, as Saudi authorities plan alcohol outlets for non‑Muslims in Dhahran, eastern province, and Jeddah, port city.
- The moves follow Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's reform drive, easing rules on cinemas, desert raves and women driving to attract tourists and international businesses.
- The Dhahran outlet will be set up in an Aramco compound for non-Muslims working for Aramco, while the Riyadh diplomatic store opened last year and recently expanded to non-Muslim Saudi Premium Residency holders.
- The government media office did not immediately reply to questions and an earlier report denying the plans sparked vigorous debate among the kingdom's online commentators.
- The plan positions Saudi Arabia to attract tourists and investors, fitting a push to diversify the economy amid major projects like Red Sea Global, while alcohol was historically obtained via diplomatic mail, black market or home brewing.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Saudi Arabia eyes alcohol outlets in Jeddah and Dammam to lure more foreign firms, travellers: Report
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is planning to open two more alcohol stores in the country, Reuters has reported. The country, which forbids its own citizens from alcohol as per Islamic laws, is trying to ease restrictions to lure more tourists and foreign businesses.
Saudi Arabia plans to open two new alcohol stores: Report
Riyadh: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is set to open two new alcohol stores as part of its ongoing social and economic transformation, according to Reuters, citing people familiar with the plans. The development follows last year’s low-key launch of an alcohol outlet for non-Muslim diplomats in Riyadh, the first since a nationwide ban was introduced more than seven decades ago. Where the new stores will open According to details shared with …
Saudi Arabia plans to open two new liquor stores, including one serving non-Muslim foreign staff at state-owned oil giant Aramco, as the kingdom further eases restrictions, according to people familiar with the plans. According to Reuters, the opening of outlets in the eastern province of Dhahran and one for diplomats in the port city of Jeddah would be a significant milestone in efforts, led by de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, t…
Saudi Arabia to open new alcohol stores despite ban, sources say
Saudi Arabia plans to open two new alcohol stores sources have said, in addition to one that opened in the capital Riyadh last year despite a decades-old ban on selling alcohol. The new stores would be open to non-Muslim foreigners, sources said.
Saudi Arabia plans to open two new alcohol stores, including one that will serve non-Muslim foreign staff of the state oil company Aramco, as the kingdom continues to relax restrictions on this, according to several people informed about these plans. Opening a store in the eastern province of Dhahran and another for diplomats in the port city of Yeda would be a new milestone in the efforts, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to open the co…
Saudi Arabia Alcohol Stores: A Step Towards a New Era
Saudi Arabia plans to open alcohol stores in Dhahran and Jeddah to serve non-Muslim foreigners. This move aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's efforts to liberalize the country. The kingdom previously opened an alcohol outlet for diplomats in Riyadh after a 73-year ban.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
