Saudi Arabia To Lift Decades-Old Alcohol Ban Ahead Of 2034 FIFA World Cup
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The sales of wine, beer, and cider will be limited to 600 licensed locations across the country, including five-star hotels, luxury resorts, and expat-friendly compounds.
In a historic move, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is planning to lift 73-year-old ban and allow the controlled sale and consumption of alcohol in 2026. The change is part of the country's preparations for hosting international events, including the Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.
Saudi authorities believe allowing alcohol at certain tourist sites would help the country compete with the UAE and Bahrain, where alcohol is allowed at some tourist hotspots.
As per the media reports, the sales of wine, beer, and cider will be limited to 600 licensed locations across the country, including five-star hotels, luxury resorts, and expat-friendly compounds like Neom, Sindalah Island, and the Red Sea Project.
What Drinks Would Be Allowed?
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Permitted locations will be able to serve wine, beer and cider. However, this allowance does not extend to stronger alcoholic drinks, such as spirits. Drinks and liquor with more than 20% alcohol content will remain banned, according to a report by the UK-based Metro, which quoted local Saudi media.
The government will not allow alcohol in homes, shops or public places. Personal alcohol production will also remain banned.
Additionally, only licensed venues and trained staff will be allowed to serve alcohol. The sale of alcohol will follow fixed procedures, the reports said.
Decision Will End 73-Year-Old Ban
The alcohol policy is part of Vision 2030. The move will in effect bring to an end Saudi Arabia's 73-year ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol.
The Kingdom aims to expand tourism, entertainment and hospitality with its more-inclusive national plan. Officials believe the change will help create jobs and bring in foreign investment.
As per the reports, Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 under Abdulaziz Al Saud with a legal system based on Wahhabi Islam. It followed Sharia law and alcohol was always forbidden, but the actual enforcement and legal ban on alcohol was enforced in 1952.
Saudi Arabia, once an ultra-conservative country, is giving up its traditional image and ushering in a new era of openness and modernity under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The country has eased some limitations on women's rights, allowing them to drive, go to athletic events and concerts with men. In 2018, it abolished a ban on cinema and screened 'Black Panther', which marked the historic return of film to the kingdom.
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First Published:
May 26, 2025, 16:21 IST
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