Saudi Arabia Allows Wealthy Expats to Buy Alcohol in Major Policy Shift

Saudi Arabia Eases Alcohol Ban for Wealthy Expats in Major Policy Shift

In a landmark social and economic reform, Saudi Arabia has begun allowing wealthy foreign residents to legally purchase alcohol within the kingdom under a highly regulated and exclusive new system. This represents one of the most significant relaxations of the country's 70-year strict alcohol prohibition, reflecting its broader Vision 2030 ambitions to attract global talent and diversify its economy.

The change has been implemented discreetly since late 2025 and applies to a narrow segment of the expatriate population, maintaining the ban for Saudi citizens and Muslim residents.

Who Qualifies Under the New Rules?

Access is restricted and based on strict eligibility criteria. Qualified buyers are:

• Non-Muslim expatriates.

• Holders of Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency (a special visa for high-income professionals and investors).

• In some cases, high-earning expats without premium residency but with a monthly income of at least 50,000 Saudi Riyals (~$13,300).

A Strictly Controlled System

The new regime is designed with multiple layers of control:

• Single Licensed Store: Purchases are currently only possible at one licensed outlet in Riyadh, with plans for similar stores in Jeddah and Dammam.

• Verification Required: Buyers must present valid residency ID and proof of status or income each time. Access resembles an appointment system.

• Digital Monitoring: Purchases are tracked, potentially through an official app, with strict monthly quotas enforced.

• No Public Consumption: Alcohol remains illegal in hotels, restaurants, and all public venues. Exporting or reselling carries severe penalties, including deportation.

This system is far more restrictive than policies in neighbors like the UAE, focusing on controlled private access rather than public availability.

The Driving Force: Vision 2030

The policy shift is a direct component of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform agenda. It follows other major social changes, such as allowing women to drive and opening cinemas, aimed at making the kingdom more appealing to international investors, skilled professionals, and tourists ahead of events like Expo 2030 Riyadh.

The quiet, unannounced rollout suggests authorities are carefully managing potential domestic backlash while testing the framework.

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Mixed Reactions and Future Implications

Reactions are divided. Some expats welcome the increased personal freedom, while others note the high financial barrier excludes most of the foreign community. Analysts see this as a potential precursor to further gradual reforms in tourism and lifestyle offerings.

For now, Saudi Arabia's alcohol policy remains in a tightly controlled pilot phase. This cautious but landmark move signals the kingdom's willingness to adapt its social policies to meet its ambitious economic goals, marking a new chapter in its ongoing transformation.