Long queues and high prices as Saudi Arabia quietly expands its only liquor store

Saudi Arabia has quietly expanded access to its only liquor stores, now allowing wealthy foreign residents to purchase alcoholic beverages. It marks the latest step in the once ultra-conservative kingdom’s liberalization drive.

Despite no official announcement, the news has spread, leading to a long queue of cars and people at a secret, unmarked outlet in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter.

The store, which opened to non-Muslim diplomats in January 2024, now allows non-Muslim foreigners holding premium residency to shop. This permit is given to people with specific skills, investors and entrepreneurs.

Saudi Arabia, home of the holiest sites islamhas banned alcohol since the early 1950s. The stores are widely seen as a way to carefully test the controlled sales of alcohol.

Crown Prince, de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia mohammed bin salmanand his father, king salmanhas adopted a dramatic liberalization policy in the state, aimed at attracting tourism, promoting international trade, and reducing economic dependence on crude oil.

State that follows Islam Sharia lawHave opened movie theaters, allowed women to drive and hosted major music festivals. But political speech and dissent are strictly considered crimes, potentially up to the death penalty.

Liquor is banned for the general public.

The unmarked store looks like a duty-free shop. Its ownership is officially unknown.

Security Is strict. Every visitor is required to undergo eligibility check and search before entry. Phones and cameras are banned inside, and staff also inspect glasses for smart glasses.

associated Press Talked to several customers coming out of the store. He spoke on condition of anonymity due to the stigma surrounding alcohol.

“The prices have increased rapidly,” he said. Diplomats are exempt from taxes on their purchases, but not Premium Residency holders.

Customers described the store as relatively well-stocked, although some said the beer and wine selection was limited.

The premium residency permit was created as part of the state’s campaign to attract global expertise. Unlike other residency, it does not require a Saudi sponsor, and offers benefits including the right to own property, start a business, and sponsor a family. Requires high income or large investment to qualify.

Saudis and other residents seeking a drink often travel to neighboring islands. bahrainWhere alcohol is legally available Muslims And non-Muslims. On weekends and holidays, the island sees an influx of tourists from Saudi Arabia and across the Gulf, making it a popular destination. going is the more expensive option Dubai In united arab emirates,

Others resort to smuggled alcohol, which can be extremely expensive, or resort to illegal alcohol – often homemade using unsafe ingredients and riskier.

Some people in Saudi Arabia enjoy alcohol-free drinks as a substitute for the real thing or to capture the aesthetic of the drink, often taking photos for social media. At major events and festivals, it is not unusual to see long lines at alcohol-free beer stands, especially among young Saudis and visitors looking to participate in this atmosphere.

Saudi Arabia’s founding king, King Abdulaziz, banned the sale after a 1951 incident in which one of his sons, Prince Mishary, got drunk and used a firearm to commit murder. British Deputy Consul Cyril Osman Jeddah,