For decades, alcohol—deemed haram under the kingdom’s Sharia-based laws—was strictly banned for ordinary residents. That changed in January 2024 when, for the first time in over 70 years, Saudi Arabia opened a liquor store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. But that shop was limited only to non-Muslim diplomats, and buyers had to register through a mobile-app system, with phones placed in special pouches while browsing. (euronews)
Fast forward to December 2025, and the restrictions have eased significantly — yet selectively. Reports from late November and early December suggest that non-Muslim foreign residents who earn at least 50,000 Saudi riyals (≈ US $13,300) per month can now legally purchase alcohol at the Riyadh outlet. Entry requires a valid salary certificate and residency documentation. (Dawn)
Who qualifies — and who remains excluded
- The new eligibility criteria effectively limit access to wealthy expatriates — investors, senior professionals, and high-earners, rather than the many lower-wage foreign workers who compose much of Saudi Arabia’s migrant labour force. (Gulf Magazine)
- As one local report puts it: the policy expansion is “quiet,” with no formal public announcement from the government. (Dawn)
- Purchases remain strictly controlled: only a single licensed store in Riyadh — and presumably, for now, no access for Saudi citizens. (Breitbart)
- There is also a quota or “monthly allowance” system for buying alcohol, and buyers must register through an official state-linked app. (Wikipedia)
Why this matters — symbolic and strategic
This shift marks one of the most sensitive cultural reforms in a kingdom where religious conservatism has dictated public policy for decades. The tightening — then gradual loosening — of alcohol laws signals a broader attempt by the Saudi leadership to rebrand the kingdom as more open to global business, tourism and expatriate residents. (The Guardian)
The change comes under the banner of Vision 2030 — the sweeping economic and social reform program championed by Mohammed bin Salman. Under this initiative, Saudi Arabia has already begun loosening restrictions in other areas: women driving, entertainment venues reopening, and foreign investment encouraged. (Business Today)
From a practical standpoint, allowing alcohol sales — even if limited — could reduce reliance on black-market booze and dangerous home-brewed alcohol, while offering foreign residents a controlled, legal alternative. (HRNWW)
What’s still in flux — and potential risks
Despite the relaxation, the reform remains narrow in scope. Most expatriates and all Saudi citizens remain subject to prohibition. The policy has been rolled out without formal announcement, leaving many details uncertain — including how quotas are allocated, how enforcement will work, and whether future expansion will occur. (Breitbart)
Socially and politically, the change remains delicate. The kingdom is home to Islam’s holiest sites, and public opinion among devout citizens may resist any normalization of alcohol. Any further liberalization would likely be gradual, carefully calibrated to avoid backlash.
What this means for the world — and why you should care
This development isn’t just about booze. It reflects a subtle but meaningful transformation in how Saudi Arabia positions itself globally — as a place open to foreign talent, investment, and perhaps eventually tourism. If the relaxation expands, it could alter social norms, expatriate lifestyles, and the kingdom’s global image.
For businesses, investors, and expats — especially those considering relocation — the change signals a cautious but real shift toward a more open, globally integrated Saudi Arabia.