Saudi Arabia has taken a major but quiet step by allowing wealthy foreign residents to legally buy alcohol. This move marks a sharp shift after a nationwide ban that lasted more than seven decades. Observers believe the policy could later include foreign tourists as well.
A Discreet Store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter
For many years, Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter has felt separate from the rest of the city. The area hosts embassies, luxury housing, green walkways, and cafés popular with young Saudis and expatriates.
Inside this exclusive district, an unmarked beige building now serves a new purpose. It houses Saudi Arabia’s first controlled alcohol shop. The store operates quietly and avoids public attention. Officials designed it as a testing ground for easing alcohol restrictions.
A Historic Ban Begins to Ease
Saudi Arabia banned alcohol sales in 1952. The country is home to Islam’s two holiest sites, which made the ban deeply symbolic. However, the kingdom has changed rapidly in recent years.
Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the government reopened cinemas and allowed music concerts. Women can now drive. Authorities also limited the power of religious police. The controlled sale of alcohol may be the boldest reform so far.
Who Can Buy Alcohol Legally
The liquor shop first opened in January 2024. At that time, only non Muslim diplomats could enter. In late 2025, the rules quietly expanded.
Now, wealthy non Muslim foreign residents can also shop there. To qualify, an expat must meet one of two conditions. They must hold a Premium Residency permit or earn at least 50,000 Saudi riyals per month.
The Premium Residency permit costs 100,000 riyals per year. It usually applies to senior executives, investors, and skilled professionals.
Security guards check residence ID cards at the entrance. These cards show both religion and residency status. Expats without the permit must also bring a salary letter from their employer. Tourists remain excluded.
Inside the Store Experience
Customers say the process feels strict but simple. Staff seal mobile phones in secure bags before entry. Long queues are common and can last over an hour.
Inside, shelves carry beer, wine, and spirits. Prices remain high. One British executive said a bottle of whisky cost him 124 dollars. Still, buyers accept the cost because prices remain far lower than black market rates.
Several customers spoke anonymously and described the store as well stocked and orderly.
What This Change Could Mean
This quiet policy shift shows how far Saudi Arabia has moved toward social change. While alcohol remains tightly controlled, the decision signals a softer approach. Many analysts expect gradual expansion, possibly to tourists in the future.
