Saudi Official Debunks Rumors of Upcoming Alcohol Ban Lift

Saudi Arabia has refuted claims that it plans to end its long-standing ban on alcohol .

A Saudi government representative dismissed reports spreading through global news outlets, starting with a wine blogger, indicating that the country plans to allow alcohol sales in tourist zones ahead of the 2034 World Cup.

The initial report, without citations, mentioned that the alteration would occur as the nation gets ready to hold the international soccer event. Alcohol has been banned in Saudi Arabia, the homeland of Islam, for 73 years now.

The previously highly conservative kingdom has relaxed certain rules to attract tourists. tourists As part of a bold strategy to broaden its economic base and reduce reliance on petroleum revenues, this initiative includes global companies.

While alcoholic drinks are still off limits, both Saudis and foreigners can take part in activities that were once unthinkable in the Gulf country - from dancing at desert raves to watching models at fashion shows or going to the cinema.

The report concerning alcohol regulations ignited a robust online discussion within the kingdom, where the monarch carries the title of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques — the holiest sites in Islam located in Mecca and Medina.

Saudi Arabia’s effective ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman—often referred to as MBS—has implemented several changes. These include lifting the ban on women driving in 2017, relaxing certain regulations concerning gender separation in public areas, and diminishing the influence of the religious police.

In Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, two Gulf nations, the sale of alcohol is strictly forbidden.

A minor move to allow alcoholic drinks to be consumed in the kingdom was the opening of the first alcohol store in the capital, Riyadh, last year serving exclusively non-Muslim diplomats.

Prior to that, alcohol was available only through diplomatic mail or on the black market.

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