FIFA World Cup 2034: Saudi Arabia puts an end to 70-year-long ban on alcohol in some tourist areas
2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia (via Getty Images)
Saudi Arabia has decided to partially roll back its decades-long ban on alcohol starting in 2026. This is a major cultural revolution as the kingdom lays the groundwork to receive global tourists for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The change, as part of the overall Vision 2030 initiative, will permit the sale of alcohol in upscale places such as hotels, restaurants, and cafes, breaking a 73-year ban in one of the world's most religiously conservative countries.
Saudi Arabia's alcohol restrictions relaxed in tourist areas in advance of hosting international events
What Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup Will Look Like
In a groundbreaking policy move, the Saudi Arabian government officially agreed to allow licensed luxury venues to serve alcohol for the first time from 2026. Strictly regulated and restricted to certain domains such as upscale hotels, luxury resorts, and global tourism hubs like Neom, Sindalah Island, and the Red Sea Project, the move comes as a part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform agenda, which aims to diversify its economy, attract international investment, and promote the tourism value of the country for mega events such as Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.
Allowed drinks under the new law will be beer, wine, and cider, while spirits and hard liquor will not be allowed. Notably, drinking alcohol will still be prohibited in private premises, public spaces, and unlicensed premises, and home brewing will still be illegal.
To protect cultural norms, only licensed premises staffed by trained personnel will be permitted to sell alcohol. Measures in place for supervision will be systems of real-time reporting, certification of personnel, and severe punishment for violations.
The transformation, say officials, is motivated by realistic economic aims: to attract more foreign tourists, encourage foreign investment, and provide jobs in the hospitality and service industries. A number of international hotel companies that have already established themselves in the kingdom are already making their preparations for the rollout, predicting increased room occupancy and wider international appeal.
Also read:
FIFA under fire for ignoring human rights concerns before 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia
Even with loosened controls, Saudi officials emphasized that any infractions—including unauthorized use, resale, or transport — will have legal repercussions, reaffirming their dedication to upholding traditional values in the face of economic modernization. Though alcohol will still be restricted and under tight control, the policy change indicates the kingdom wishes to embrace international standards before hosting some of the world's largest events—all while preserving its cultural heritage.
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