Saudi Arabia has quietly begun allowing wealthy foreign residents to purchase alcohol from a store in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, marking a significant shift after a 73-year ban. The move is part of broader social and economic reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at presenting the kingdom as more moderate and investment-friendly.
The unmarked store, which opened in January 2024, was initially restricted to non-Muslim diplomats. Under new rules introduced without announcement at the end of 2025, non-Muslim foreign residents with a Premium Residency permit (costing 100,000 Saudi riyals annually) or a monthly salary of at least 50,000 riyals can now purchase beer, wine, and spirits. Foreign tourists remain ineligible.
Customers must show their residence ID card, which details their religion and residency status, and those without the permit need a company-issued salary certificate. Mobile phones are sealed in tamper-proof bags before entry, and queues can exceed an hour. Prices are two to three times higher than in Western markets but lower than on the black market, with a bottle of Johnny Walker Black Label whisky costing around $124.
Alcohol purchases are governed by a points-based monthly quota system, allowing dozens of litres of spirits per person. Diplomats receive discounts. There has been no official government announcement; buyers learned of the change through word of mouth, and the store does not appear on online maps.
Analysts say the ambiguity is deliberate, reflecting caution on sensitive issues. Sebastian Sons of German think tank Carpo noted authorities are willing to adjust policies as needed. Despite the ban, alcohol has long circulated in Saudi Arabia through private parties and the black market, often supplied via embassy imports.
