Saudi Arabia to open first alcohol shop for non-Muslim diplomats in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia is getting ready to open its first alcohol store in the country's capital, Riyadh, catering only to diplomats who are not Muslims, as per a document and a Reuters source who was briefed on the preparations on Wednesday.

According to the paper acquired by Reuters, customers will need to register using a mobile app, obtain a clearance code from the foreign ministry, and adhere to monthly purchase limitations.

Since alcohol consumption is prohibited in Islam, the move marks a significant step in the kingdom's efforts, spearheaded by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to open the staunchly conservative Muslim nation for travel and business.

It is also a component of larger strategies to develop a post-oil economy known as Vision 2030.

The new store would be "strictly restricted" to non-Muslims and is situated in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, an area home to embassies and diplomats, according to the paperwork.

It was unclear whether the business would be accessible to other expats who are not Muslims. Saudi Arabia is home to millions of foreigners, most of them being Muslim labourers from Egypt and Asia.

The store is anticipated to open in the upcoming weeks, according to a source with knowledge of the plans.

Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia and is punishable by hundreds of flogging, deportation, fines, or jail time. Expatriates are also subject to expulsion. Whipping has mostly been replaced by jail sentences as part of the reforms.

Only on the illicit market or by diplomatic mail has alcohol been accessible.

A request for comment was not answered by the Saudi authorities.

The government is reportedly putting additional limits on alcohol imports into diplomatic consignments, according to state-run media this week. This could increase demand for the new store.