Saudi Arabia plans new alcohol shops in reform push

WISE NEWS PRESS / RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA — NOVEMBER 26, 2025

Saudi Arabia plans to open two new alcohol sales points in the eastern city of Dhahran and the coastal city of Jeddah by 2026, marking a further relaxation of the kingdom's strict social prohibitions.

The initiative is viewed as a continuation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 agenda, which aims to modernize the Gulf nation, diversify its economy beyond oil, and attract international tourism and investment.

Targeted access for expats and diplomats

According to sources close to the matter, the planned store in Dhahran will be located within the campus of the state oil giant, Saudi Aramco. This facility will exclusively serve non-Muslim foreign staff. The second location in Jeddah is expected to cater to diplomatic personnel.

These new outlets follow a historic shift last year when the kingdom opened its first-ever alcohol shop in Riyadh, exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats. Before these changes, alcohol was strictly banned for 73 years, available only through diplomatic mail pouches, the black market, or home brewing.

Vision 2030 and social shifts

The gradual introduction of controlled alcohol sales represents a significant cultural shift in a country governed by Islamic law (Sharia). Under the leadership of the Crown Prince, Saudi Arabia has implemented sweeping social reforms, including lifting the ban on women driving in 2017, curbing the powers of the religious police, and reopening cinemas.

While the government has not officially announced a broad legalization of alcohol, the expansion of these sales points indicates a pragmatic approach to accommodating the lifestyles of international residents and "premium residency" holders.

Tourism and future prospects

The reforms are closely tied to the kingdom's ambitious tourism goals. Saudi officials acknowledge the demands of international visitors but remain cautious regarding public consumption.

Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb recently addressed the topic, telling reporters, "We understand that some international visitors want alcohol, but nothing has changed yet." When pressed on whether the "yet" implied future changes, he declined to elaborate.

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