In a significant shift in the policy, Saudi Arabia is set to open its first alcohol shop in over seven decades, located in Riyadh, specifically catering to non-Muslim expatriates, primarily diplomatic staff. The decision comes as Saudi officials aim to counter the illicit trade of alcohol, following a historic prohibition on alcohol since 1952.
According to the documents seen by the AFP and Reuters news agencies, the new store will be located in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter west of the city centre and is expected to open within weeks. However, several stringent restrictions have to be strictly followed in order to purchase.
The restrictions include:
- Advance Registration: Thirsty envoys will need to register in advance and obtain clearance from the government to access the shop.
- Age Limit: No one under the age of 21 will be permitted to enter the store.
- Dress Code: Proper attire will be mandatory at all times inside the shop.
- No Proxies: Drinkers will not have the option to send a proxy, such as a driver, to make purchases on their behalf.
- Monthly Limits: Monthly limitations on alcohol purchases will be enforced.
A major policy shift:
It is pertinent to note that while these limitations exist, they are seen as a significant step towards loosening alcohol restrictions in the conservative kingdom.
Under current Saudi law, severe penalties are imposed for the consumption or possession of alcohol, including fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for unauthorized foreigners.
Moreover, in addition to opening the alcohol shop, Saudi authorities are planning to introduce a new regulatory framework. This framework would allow diplomats to bring in specific quantities of alcohol, thereby curbing the uncontrolled exchange of such goods.
Significantly the move is seen as the latest in series of broader initiatives known as “Vision 2030.” These initiatives, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aim to liberalize Saudi society and diversify its economy.
Earlier Policy:
Historically, Saudi Arabia maintained a conciliatory stance toward the presence of alcohol within the kingdom until a tragic incident in 1951. Mishari bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, a prince, fatally shot Cyril Ousman, the British vice-consul in Jeddah, after being refused another drink at a function. In response, King Abdulaziz imposed a complete ban on alcohol in the country in 1952, marking the beginning of a more stringent stance on alcohol consumption in Saudi Arabia.
