Saudi Arabia Permits Expats Earning Over 50,000 Riyals (~$13,000) Per Month to Purchase Alcohol
Riyadh – Saudi Arabia has taken a historic step by allowing non-Muslim foreign residents to purchase alcohol, Bloomberg reports, marking a significant shift in the kingdom’s traditionally strict prohibition policies.
Under the new rules, only expatriates earning more than 50,000 riyals (approximately $13,300) per month are eligible to buy alcohol. Purchases are limited to a single liquor store in Riyadh, and buyers must present a salary certificate to gain access.
ALSO READ: Chrisean Rock Sparks Social Media Frenzy with Massive Blueface Tattoo
The move is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to attract skilled foreign workers, expand tourism, and prepare for the 2034 World Cup. Previously, alcohol sales were largely restricted to diplomats, making this a notable policy expansion.
Authorities have kept the policy out of local media coverage, likely to avoid backlash from conservative elements of Saudi society. While still tightly controlled, the decision signals the kingdom’s cautious efforts to modernize and accommodate a global workforce while balancing cultural sensitivities.
Experts say the initiative could serve as a stepping stone toward broader reforms in lifestyle and entertainment sectors, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic and social development goals.
Saudi Arabia Permits Expats Earning Over 50,000 Riyals (~$13,000) Per Month to Purchase Alcohol
[…] ALSO READ: Saudi Arabia Permits Expats Earning Over 50,000 Riyals (~$13,000) Per Month to Purchase Alcohol […]