Saudi Arabia has taken another major step in easing its long-standing restrictions on alcohol, marking a significant cultural change under the reforms introduced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
For the first time, certain non-Muslim foreign residents are now allowed to legally buy alcohol from the kingdom’s only licensed store. This change reflects the government’s plan to present a more open image to the world and support its economic transformation goals.
However, the new permission is not open to everyone. It is limited to a very small and specific group of expatriates. To qualify, a person must earn at least 50,000 Saudi riyals per month and must complete strict checks that verify their identity, salary, and documents.
This tight control is meant to ensure that alcohol access remains regulated and does not spread widely across society. The policy follows an earlier decision that allowed non-diplomatic foreign residents to access alcohol under controlled conditions.
The government hopes that such changes will help diversify the economy by making Saudi Arabia more attractive to international companies, skilled expatriates, and global tourists.
By offering facilities that foreigners are used to in other countries, Saudi Arabia aims to create an environment that supports business growth and international engagement.
Before this policy shift, alcohol was completely banned for the public and was only available within diplomatic compounds.
Many expatriates had to turn to the black market or make their own alcohol at home, which carried serious risks and legal consequences. The new system provides a safer, regulated option while still maintaining strict cultural boundaries.
Saudi officials say these steps are part of a broader plan to modernize the kingdom while carefully managing social sensitivities. The change shows how the country is slowly opening up while keeping firm control over how reforms are introduced.
