Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has denied media reports claiming the Kingdom plans to lift its 73-year ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol by 2026.
According to Reuters, a Saudi official on Monday, May 26, dismissed the claims, saying the Kingdom, the birthplace of Islam, continues to prohibit alcohol for Muslims.
The denial follows widespread circulation of a report that originally appeared on a wine blog last week, alleging that Saudi authorities were preparing to introduce a licensing system allowing limited alcohol sales in tourist zones such as NEOM, Sindalah Island and the Red Sea Project. The blog did not cite any official sources.
Earlier reports speculated that the proposed regulatory framework would permit controlled alcohol sales at around 600 venues nationwide, including five-star hotels, luxury resorts and diplomatic zones, as part of broader reforms ahead of Riyadh Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
This significant policy shift forms part of the kingdom’s preparations to host major international events, including Riyadh Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
Saudi Arabia has maintained a alcohol ban since 1952, prohibiting both citizens and foreign nationals from consuming alcoholic beverages. However, since January 2024, a shop in Riyadh has been granted permission to sell alcohol to non-Muslim diplomats under strict regulations.
Authorities in the Kingdom have repeatedly emphasised their commitment to preserving cultural and religious values while pursuing Vision 2030 — a reform agenda aimed at diversifying the economy and boosting tourism.
In February, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, confirmed that alcohol will not be permitted at the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
In 2022, Assistant Minister of Tourism Princess Haifa bint Mohammed said that Saudi Arabia had no plans to lift the ban on serving alcohol. Despite the ongoing restrictions, the Kingdom continued to attract tourists and excel on the global stage.
Editor’s note: This article has been updated to include the Saudi government’s official denial of reports suggesting the alcohol ban would be lifted by 2026.
