Saudi Arabia quietly lets expats buy alcohol in Riyadh stores

Saudi Arabia has taken a cautious step in loosening its long-standing restrictions on alcohol, allowing non-Muslim residents under the country’s special residency program to purchase alcohol from Riyadh stores that were previously reserved for diplomats. The move is part of the kingdom’s broader effort to boost tourism and diversify its economy under Vision 2030.

Alcohol access

According to Semafor, the Saudi government has quietly expanded access, permitting non-Muslim holders of the premium residency program to buy alcohol from the Riyadh store, which until now catered exclusively to foreign diplomats. The government has not issued an official announcement; the change became known as residents discovered it while attempting to purchase alcohol.

Vision 2030
This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to attract 150 million visitors annually and reduce reliance on oil revenues. The Riyadh liquor store , opened last year, centralized alcohol distribution in the kingdom, which previously relied on diplomatic shipments.

Residency program
Launched in 2019, the premium residency program targets high-earning expatriates and skilled foreign workers. By allowing this group to buy alcohol, the government signals openness to expatriates while maintaining strict overall control over alcohol sales. Eligibility for the program has expanded over time and now includes expatriates earning more than 80,000 riyals ($21,000) per month or those employed in certain professions.

Historically, alcohol has been strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia, though some hotels offer mocktails and non-alcoholic beer. Businesses are prepared to adapt to the new regulations, but the government is proceeding cautiously.