In a groundbreaking development, Saudi Arabia is set to open its first liquor store in more than seven decades. On January 24, BBC reported that the store, slated to open in the diplomatic quarter of Riyadh in the coming weeks and will exclusively cater to foreign diplomats of non-Muslim religion. The move is positioned as a strategic measure to address the challenges posed by the illegal trade in alcohol, often facilitated by foreign diplomats using diplomatic pouches.
Background
Saudi Arabia's stance on alcohol underwent a shift in 1952 when it adopted a strict prohibition policy, banning the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Prior to this, the country had been relatively tolerant of alcohol's presence. The catalyst for this change was a tragic incident in 1951 when a inebriated Saudi Prince, Mishari bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, fatally shot British Vice-Consul Cyril Usman during a party in Jeddah.
Key Features of the New Liquor Store
- The liquor store will serve as an exclusive venue for foreign diplomats of non-Muslim religion, a demographic permitted to purchase alcoholic beverages.
- The store will be strategically located in the diplomatic quarter of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. This location aims to serve the diplomatic community residing in the city.
- Saudi authorities emphasize that the opening of the liquor store is a proactive measure to combat the illegal trade of alcohol. Diplomats, often using diplomatic pouches, have been involved in the "uncontrolled exchange" of alcohol.
- Prospective customers must register through a dedicated mobile app and obtain government approval before making purchases at the store.
- The store enforces strict age restrictions, allowing only individuals aged 21 and above to enter. Visitors are also required to adhere to a specific dress code, ensuring they wear "appropriate clothing."
- To regulate alcohol consumption, the store will impose monthly limits measured in "points." Different alcoholic beverages will be assigned varying point values, with a maximum monthly allocation of 240 points.
The prospect of widening the clientele for the upcoming liquor store in Riyadh to include non-diplomatic foreigners in Saudi Arabia has not been indicated. These individuals, without diplomatic privileges, officially have no access to alcohol in the kingdom. While the introduction of alcohol into Riyadh's lifestyle is imminent, individuals consuming alcohol should exercise caution regarding the locations where they choose to drink and their behavior thereafter.
Current Saudi laws impose severe penalties for the consumption or possession of alcohol, including fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for unauthorized foreigners.
These developments align with the broader Vision 2030 initiatives, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to liberalize Saudi society. The reforms seek to transform various aspects of Saudi Arabia, including societal norms and regulations. While other Gulf states also operate stringent alcohol regimes, such as Qatar and the UAE, where alcohol is sold to non-Muslims over 21 in designated establishments, there is no indication in the Saudi document that a similar approach is under consideration in the kingdom.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)