For the first time since 1932, Saudi Arabia will lift the ban on alcohol ahead of the 2034 World Cup
27 May 09:05
Saudi Arabia will allow limited sale and consumption of alcohol starting in 2026, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports citing The Economic Times. This will be the first easing of the alcohol ban in the kingdom, which was introduced with its formation in 1932.
The decision is part of the large-scale Vision 2030 program and preparations for international events, including the Expo 2030 exhibition and the FIFA 2034 World Cup. However, the new policy will affect only certain tourist areas and hotel complexes.
Where alcohol will be allowed
The sale of alcoholic beverages will be limited to about 600 locations throughout the kingdom. These will mainly be luxury hotels, resorts, and specially designed tourist areas, including the Neom, Sindala Island, and Red Sea projects.
Authorized establishments will be able to serve beer, wine, and cider. Strong alcoholic beverages such as vodka or whiskey will remain banned. Alcohol will not be allowed in private homes, regular stores, or public places. Home production of alcohol will also remain prohibited.
Strict licensing rules
Only licensed establishments with trained staff will be able to sell alcohol. The authorities will establish clear sales procedures to prevent abuse and maintain order. The rules are designed to take into account local traditions and standards.
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Part of the economic strategy
The easing of alcohol restrictions is part of the national program Vision 2030 aimed at diversifying the kingdom’s economy. The plan envisages the development of tourism, entertainment, and hospitality.
Officials believe that the changes will help create new jobs and attract foreign investment. Large hotel chains are already adapting their plans, expecting an increase in the flow of international guests after the implementation of the new rules.
The authorities promise to closely monitor the functioning of the alcohol sales system. There are severe penalties for violating the rules. The goal is to support economic growth while maintaining respect for local values and traditions.
Alcohol prohibition in Saudi Arabia
Alcohol is completely banned in Saudi Arabia – throughout the country, for all residents, regardless of citizenship. This ban has been in effect since the establishment of the kingdom in 1932 and is based on Sharia law, which is the basis of the state’s legal system. Any consumption, transportation, or possession of alcohol is punishable by heavy fines, imprisonment, deportation (for foreigners), and corporal punishment.
Despite the official ban, the black market for alcohol exists in the country. There are cases of homemade alcohol production, which sometimes leads to mass poisonings. Local media occasionally report on the confiscation of large batches of smuggled alcohol: for example, in 2022, authorities detained a truck with more than 30,000 bottles of alcohol disguised as packages of household chemicals.
Saudi courts consider thousands of cases related to violations of the “dry law” every year, but official statistics are hardly ever published. Foreigners who do not follow the rules risk being deported or imprisoned. In one of the high-profile cases, in 2021, a US citizen was arrested for storing wine, despite the fact that it was for religious purposes.
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