Saudi Arabia to open first alcohol store for non-Muslim diplomats

Riyadh: Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing to inaugurate its first-ever alcohol store in the capital city of Riyadh, catering exclusively to non-Muslim diplomats.

A source familiar with the plans and an accessed document revealed that customers must register through a mobile app, obtain a clearance code from the foreign ministry, and adhere to monthly purchase quotas.

This development signifies a major step in Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's initiative to open the traditionally ultra-conservative Muslim nation to tourism and business. The move aligns with broader objectives outlined in Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil dependency.

Situated in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, an area inhabited by embassies and diplomats, the new store will be "strictly restricted" to non-Muslims, as per the document. It remains unclear whether other non-Muslim expatriates in the country will have access to the store, as the majority of expatriates are Muslim workers from Asia and Egypt.

The store, expected to open in the coming weeks, reflects a departure from Saudi Arabia's strict laws against alcohol consumption, punishable by lashes, fines, imprisonment, and deportation for expatriates. Reforms have replaced corporal punishment with jail sentences in recent times.

Previously, alcohol in Saudi Arabia was only available through diplomatic mail or on the black market. The government's recent move to impose new restrictions on alcohol imports within diplomatic consignments, reported by state-controlled media, could potentially boost demand for the upcoming store.

Despite the relaxation of certain social codes, such as gender segregation and dress requirements for women, in recent years, Saudi Arabia has maintained strict regulations on alcohol. The country's evolving policies also include efforts to develop local industries and logistics hubs and generate employment opportunities as part of Vision 2030.