Saudi Arabia, which has banned alcohol for more than 70 years, is reportedly allowing some wealthy foreign residents to purchase whiskey and champagne, according to The New York Times.
The store, previously limited to diplomats, is now said to sell alcohol to non-Muslim foreigners holding “premium residency” permits, five customers told the newspaper.
Premium residency is a status granted to highly skilled or affluent expatriates working in key sectors such as healthcare or government-owned enterprises. Sources spoke on condition of anonymity due to local sensitivities and to preserve their access to the store.
No official announcement has been made regarding changes to Saudi Arabia’s alcohol policy. Still, the unmarked Riyadh store appears busy, with high-end SUVs lining up outside a gated facility in the Diplomatic Quarter. A receipt reviewed by the newspaper showed a mid-range bottle of white wine priced at around $85, more than five times its cost in the U.S.
The store seems linked to government operations, with purchases capped by a monthly quota tied to government-issued ID numbers. Access is managed via a smartphone app developed by the tax and customs authority. A Saudi government media office did not respond to requests for comment.
This controlled expansion of alcohol access comes amid Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s broader social and economic reforms. Over the past decade, Saudi Arabia has eased restrictions on women, hosted mixed-gender events, and gradually relaxed other social regulations. Analysts say allowing limited alcohol sales could attract foreign professionals, boost tourism, and increase government revenue, while carefully balancing conservative public opinion.
