Saudi Arabia has taken another step in easing its alcohol restrictions as part of its broader social reforms. High-earning non-Muslim foreign residents can now buy alcohol if they earn at least 50,000 riyals ($13,300) a month. They must show a salary certificate to enter the country’s first and only liquor store in Riyadh.
The outlet opened last year for foreign diplomats. It recently expanded access to non-Muslims with premium residency status. Officials have not issued any public statement about the updated rules, and no government comment was available on Monday.
Customers follow a monthly point-based allowance that limits how much they can buy. Two more liquor stores are now under development in other major cities, according to earlier reports.
These gradual changes support Saudi Arabia’s plan to attract skilled workers and major investors. The government aims to make Riyadh a leading global business hub and sees foreign talent as key to its economic transition.
Over recent years, Saudi Arabia has introduced major reforms. Women now drive. Entertainment venues operate across the country. Music events and mixed-gender gatherings are common. Tourism has also expanded. The fast pace of reform shows the kingdom’s effort to modernize while respecting its religious identity as the birthplace of Islam and home to its two holiest sites.
