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Saudi Arabia plans to open two additional restricted-access alcohol stores in Dhahran and Jeddah, expanding a cautious set of reforms that permit limited sales to non-Muslim foreign residents and diplomats, according to Reuters.
Sources say both new stores are expected to open in 2026, though no precise timeline has been provided and the government has not publicly confirmed the plans.
The proposed Dhahran outlet will be located inside a compound owned by Saudi Aramco and will cater to non-Muslim foreign staff working for the oil giant.
The Jeddah store is expected to serve non-Muslim diplomats stationed in the city, where many missions and consulates are based.
These changes occur amid a broader reform agenda led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman aimed at diversifying Saudi Arabia’s economy, attracting international investment and boosting tourism.
This is despite Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed al-Khateeb’s statement last month that the kingdom has not taken any steps to lift the ban on alcohol sales.
When asked whether the kingdom plans to relax cultural restrictions—such as alcohol laws or beach dress codes—al-Khateeb described it as a “usual question,” reaffirming that Saudi Arabia remains focused on offering cultural, historical and entertainment experiences within its values and traditions.
He noted that the kingdom has “gone a long way” in easing dress codes, particularly in coastal and tourism areas.
Khateeb also said the tourism sector is one of the main pillars of Vision 2030, highlighting ongoing efforts to expand investment, support economic growth and create job opportunities for youth and women.
In essence, the expansion of alcohol-retail access to select foreign residents and diplomats underscores a nuanced policy shift, mirroring wider social and economic reforms but maintaining the broader prohibition for the general population.
These developments build on earlier changes: In January 2024, the kingdom opened its first liquor store for non-Muslim diplomats in the diplomatic quarter of Riyadh.
That outlet’s customer base has since reportedly been extended to include non-Muslim holders of the “Premium Residency” visa, a special status for foreign entrepreneurs and highly skilled individuals.
While the official ban on alcohol remains in place for the majority of Saudi residents, these new outlets signal a gradual shift.
Meanwhile, in Riyadh, alcohol-free venues illustrate how some social norms are being tested without crossing legal boundaries.
At the A12 cafe, customers sip 0.0 percent draft beer served in pint glasses, snack on peanuts and watch football on big screens—a scene reminiscent of pubs abroad but entirely alcohol-free.
The cafe has drawn steady crowds since April, with visitors sharing videos of the experience, even as alcohol remains strictly prohibited.
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