WEB DESK: Saudi Arabia is set to open its inaugural liquor store within weeks, marking a historic decision spearheaded by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The Kingdom has consistently enforced prohibition measures against alcohol since its original ban in 1952, in line with Islamic principles that prohibit the consumption of alcohol.
The landmark development will see a non-Muslim-only facility in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter. Access to the store requires authorization through an app called Diplo, according to Reuters.
Diplomats who have been granted approval are subject to certain restrictions, including a ban on bringing guests or persons under the age of 21 into the premises.
In addition, photography is not permitted in the store and cell phones must be secured in bags when shopping. A monthly quota is set for each registered diplomat.
Saudi Arabia is struggling with an underground alcohol market, illegal imports facilitated by smuggling in embassies and the use of diplomatic pouches to avoid legal procedures at border crossings.
In contrast, neighboring Gulf states such as the United Arab Emirates allow non-Muslims limited access to alcohol through licensed establishments.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Saudi government highlighted the new regulatory framework as a concerted effort to combat the illegal alcohol trade that infiltrates the kingdom through diplomatic missions.
The statement highlighted the focus on the specific allocation of alcoholic products upon entry into the Kingdom to curb the unregulated process that previously led to the uncontrolled exchange of these items.
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The move is in line with ongoing liberalization initiatives contained in Vision 2030, a comprehensive strategy aimed at diversifying and creating a post-oil economy through trade, tourism and cultural endeavours.
As part of this approach, the nation gradually relaxed numerous religious laws. In particular, in 2017, King Salman recognized the right of women to drive, lifted a decades-old ban, and in 2018 issued driver’s licenses.
At the same time, the 35-year ban on cinemas was lifted in the same year, marking the opening of the first cinema in Riyadh.
However, until this recent development, individuals convicted of consuming alcohol in Saudi Arabia faced fines and imprisonment, while visiting foreigners faced deportation.
The introduction of this liquor store marks another step in the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to modernize and align with evolving societal norms.
