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The Arab state had strict no-alcohol rules since 1952, but the introduction of its first alcohol shop in 72 years has people questioning Saudi Arabia’s stance on booze.
Both foreigners and locals were left somewhat bemused when news broke of Saudi Arabia’s first alcohol shop. Well, first since 1952 at least.
For the past 72 years, Saudi – which has some of the strictest Muslim policy in the Middle East – has enforced a stringent no-alcohol law covering the purchase, consumption, and sale of any alcohol products.
But a growing concern with ‘the illicit trade of alcohol’ in the country has convinced Saudi officials to reconsider the law.
The new store will be located in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter west of the city centre. But Saudi’s shouldn’t pop the champagne just yet; there will still be limitations on the store itself.
Only non-Muslim expats will be able to enjoy refreshments at the shop, and will need to register beforehand to receive government clearance. Under 21’s will also be banned from entering, and ‘proper attire is required’ at all times whilst inside.
Patrons will have to deal with monthly limitations on alcohol, enforced through a points system. 160 ‘points’ of alcohol will be allowed per month, with one litre of spirits amounting to six points, and a litre of wine three.
The privileges of alcohol will, ultimately, only be afforded to non-Muslim diplomats, and while its suspected the rules will be lax, it’s not likely the new law will be extended to non-diplomatic clientele any time soon.
Given Saudi Arabia’s political landscape, it’s no surprise that the new alcohol shop has had a mixed response from the national and international community.
Some Saudi expats believe a softened alcohol ban is a sign of the country’s development. A Lebanese businessman dining in Riyadh last week told The Guardian ‘this country keeps surprising us. It’s a country that is developing, that is growing and that is attracting a lot of talent and a lot of investments. So yes, of course there is going to be much more’.
Others, however, are concerned that the softened alcohol laws are a threat to Saudi’s Muslim values.
‘It’s not who we are’ said one Saudi man when asked about the new store. ‘[I do not have] some kind of judgement towards people who drink. […] But having something that is out there affects the culture and the community’.
His friend added that he would prefer people continue to go abroad to drink, as many do currently.
‘Everybody travels here. It’s easily accessible. But what I want to say is that in this jurisdiction, I’m not happy that it’s allowed.’
Another demographic who are against the news are those working in the ‘mocktail’ industry. Non-alcoholic bars and cocktails have become increasingly fashionable in Saudi Arabia, especially amongst wealthy clientele.
