Saudi Arabia, the ultraconservative kingdom known for its strict Islamic laws, has made a significant stride towards social liberalism by opening its first liquor store in over 70 years. While currently limited to non-Muslim diplomats, the establishment of this store in Riyadh marks a crucial step in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s goal to transform the kingdom into a thriving tourist and business destination. This move is part of his ambitious plan to diversify the Saudi economy away from its heavy reliance on crude oil.
A New Era of Social Liberalization
Situated in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, adjacent to a supermarket, the liquor store resembles an upscale duty-free shop found at major international airports. Customers are required to present their diplomatic identification and store their mobile phones in pouches while inside. Purchases are facilitated through a mobile app that operates on an allotment system.
Currently, the store offers a variety of liquor, wine, and just two types of beer. However, the opening of this store coincides with new regulations governing alcohol sales to diplomats, aimed at controlling the uncontrolled import of these goods. These regulations, which went into effect on Monday, were reported by the state-aligned Saudi Research and Media Group’s English-language newspaper, Arab News.
Breaking with Tradition
Since the 1950s, Saudi Arabia has strictly prohibited the sale and consumption of alcohol. This ban originated after an incident in 1951 when one of King Abdulaziz’s sons, Prince Mishari, killed a British vice consul in Jeddah while under the influence of alcohol. The ban was further reinforced in the aftermath of Iran’s Islamic Revolution in 1979 and a militant attack on the Grand Mosque in Mecca.
While the kingdom has witnessed some social reforms in recent years, including the opening of movie theaters, granting women the right to drive, and hosting music festivals, political dissent and freedom of speech remain heavily restricted. The penalty for speaking out against the government can be severe, including death.
Navigating Sensitivities
As Saudi Arabia prepares for the ambitious Neom project, a $500 billion futuristic city, rumors have circulated about the possible inclusion of alcohol at a beach resort within the development. However, this topic remains sensitive, as an official who suggested the possibility in 2022 was promptly removed from the project.
While Saudi Arabia still maintains its ban on alcohol, the opening of this liquor store signifies a significant shift in the country’s traditionally conservative stance. It signals the crown prince’s determination to modernize the kingdom and position it as an attractive destination for tourists and businesses alike.
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