In an unprecedented shift that signals a new chapter in the Kingdom’s social and economic evolution, Saudi Arabia is set to open two controlled-access alcohol stores—one catering to non-Muslim foreign staff of state oil giant Aramco and another exclusively for diplomats in the bustling port city of Jeddah, Reuters reported.
The move, which comes as part of the broader Vision 2030 agenda championed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflects Riyadh’s push to reshape its global image, expand tourism, and attract top-tier foreign talent. While alcohol remains strictly prohibited for citizens and the general public, the planned outlets will operate under tight regulation, with access limited to approved non-Muslim foreigners and diplomatic personnel.
Sources familiar with the development say the Aramco outlet will serve the company’s extensive expatriate workforce, easing long-standing restrictions that often forced foreigners to rely on unofficial channels. The Jeddah store, on the other hand, will cater to diplomats who have historically depended on duty-free imports to stock their supplies.
Officials have not released exact opening dates, but the announcement alone has stirred conversations across the region. Supporters hail the decision as a pragmatic step toward global competitiveness, while conservative voices caution against rapid cultural shifts.
Still, analysts say the controlled introduction of alcohol access—strictly fenced within professional and diplomatic circles—highlights Saudi Arabia’s calculated balancing act: modernizing on its own terms without compromising its cultural core.
As Vision 2030 accelerates, the Kingdom appears determined to show the world that change is not only possible—but already underway.
Source:@Currentrep
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