Saudi Arabia Extends Alcohol Access to High-Earning Non-Muslim Residents as Part of Economic Transformation

Dec 09, 2025 10:27 am CST

Saudi Arabia has expanded alcohol purchase privileges to non-Muslim expatriates earning at least 50,000 riyals monthly, representing another step in the kingdom's gradual social liberalization aimed at attracting foreign talent and investment. This carefully managed modernization balances economic transformation goals with Saudi Arabia's position as Islam's birthplace and guardian of its holiest sites.