December 08, (THEWILL) — Saudi Arabia has taken another step to relax its strict alcohol regulations, permitting non-Muslim foreign residents earning 50,000 riyals (about $17,265) or more per month to purchase alcoholic beverages legally.
There has been no official announcement regarding the policy, but sources familiar with the matter said that under the new rules, residents must present a salary certificate to verify their income before gaining access to the kingdom’s only licensed liquor store in Riyadh. Opened in 2024 exclusively for foreign diplomats, the store recently expanded access to non-Muslims with premium residency status.
Customers would also make purchases through a monthly point-based allowance system designed to regulate consumption.
The measure forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to ease social restrictions and position Riyadh as a competitive hub for business and investment. Attracting foreign talent and capital is central to the kingdom’s economic transformation.
In recent years, the country has introduced landmark reforms, including lifting the ban on women driving, permitting public entertainment and music, allowing gender mixing in social settings, and promoting tourism.
Observers say the gradual relaxation of alcohol rules, currently targeting high-earning expatriates, reflects the kingdom’s strategy to diversify the economy, attract international investment, and bolster its image as a modern, business-friendly nation.
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