Saudi Arabia to open more alcohol stores as curbs ease

In a step toward social liberalization, Saudi Arabia is set to open two new alcohol stores in 2026, targeting non-Muslim foreigners. This expansion builds on a single Riyadh outlet launched last year for diplomats, now extended to holders of Premium Residency visas, granted to investors and skilled expatriates. One store will cater exclusively to non-Muslim staff at state oil giant Aramco in Dhahran, the eastern hub of the kingdom’s energy sector. The second, in the bustling Red Sea port of Jeddah, will serve diplomats and select residents. These outlets mark a cautious easing of a 73-year-old ban, aimed at attracting global talent and tourists amid Vision 2030’s diversification drive. 
Despite these steps, Saudi Arabia maintains its official nationwide ban on alcohol sales to the general public, both Saudi citizens and ordinary foreign residents. There has been no formal announcement that regular tourists will be able to buy alcohol, and senior officials have recently stressed that tourism growth is being pursued without lifting the ban.
Besides easing the ban on alcohol, the country is also relaxing other norms in order to lure more international businesses and tourists. Earlier, under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country allowed women to drive in 2017, eased rules on segregation of men and women in public spaces, and curbed the powers of the religious police. The country is also looking to expand its portfolio in tourism, which includes plans to open around 17 hotels by May 2026.