Saudi Arabia expands only alcohol store as long queues and high prices emerge

Saudi Arabia has quietly expanded access to its sole alcohol store, now permitting wealthy foreign residents to purchase alcoholic beverages. This marks the latest step in the once-ultraconservative kingdom’s liberalisation drive.

Though no official announcement was made as to the latest development, news has spread, leading to long queues of cars and people at the discreet, unmarked outlet in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarters.

The store, which opened in January 2024 for non-Muslim diplomats, now allows non-Muslim foreigners holding Premium Residency to buy. This permit is granted to those with specialised skills, investors, and entrepreneurs.

Saudi Arabia, home to the holiest sites in Islam, has banned alcohol since the early 1950s. The store is widely seen as a way to cautiously test the controlled sale of alcohol.

Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and his father, King Salman, have pursued a dramatic liberalisation policy in the kingdom, aiming to attract tourism, boost international business and reduce economic dependence on crude oil.