Saudi Arabia to opens first alcohol store in the country! But can Muslims buy from it?
Produced by: Tarun Mishra
First Alcohol Store in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia is set to open its inaugural alcohol store in the capital city, Riyadh, marking a significant departure from the country's traditional stance on alcohol consumption. However, the store is designed exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats.
Registration Process
Prospective customers must register via a mobile app, obtain a clearance code from the foreign ministry, and adhere to monthly quotas for their alcohol purchases, according to a document seen by Reuters.
Initiative by Crown Prince
The move aligns with the broader efforts of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to position the ultra-conservative Muslim nation for increased tourism and business. Serving alcohol is strictly forbidden in Islam.
Strategic Location
The newly established alcohol store is situated in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, a neighbourhood primarily inhabited by embassies and diplomats. Access will be "strictly restricted" to non-Muslims, as outlined in the document.
Potential Access
While it remains unclear whether other non-Muslim expatriates will have access to the store, the facility is anticipated to open its doors in the coming weeks. The majority of expatriates in Saudi Arabia are Muslim workers from Asia and Egypt.
Historical Alcohol Restrictions
Saudi Arabia has long maintained strict laws against alcohol consumption, with penalties ranging from lashings, fines, imprisonment, to deportation. Reforms have replaced whipping with jail sentences.
Previous Channels for Obtaining Alcohol
Prior to this development, alcohol in Saudi Arabia was accessible solely through diplomatic mail or the black market. The government recently confirmed new restrictions on alcohol imports within diplomatic consignments.
Government Confirmation and Framework
The Center of International Communication (CIC) confirmed the new regulations, emphasizing their aim to combat the illicit trade of alcohol goods. The CIC statement did not specifically address the upcoming alcohol store but highlighted its adherence to international diplomatic conventions.
Vision 2030's Broader Goals
The move towards easing alcohol restrictions aligns with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's initiative to diversify its economy beyond oil. The plan includes developing local industries, creating jobs for Saudi nationals, and positioning the country as a global business and tourism destination.