Saudi Arabia Quietly Eases Alcohol Access for Premium Visa Holders and Diplomats

Nov 25, 2025 02:06 am CST

Saudi Arabia has reportedly relaxed its strict alcohol restrictions, allowing premium visa holders and diplomats to purchase alcohol from the kingdom's only liquor store in Riyadh. This quiet policy shift represents another step in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ongoing modernization efforts, though the kingdom has made no official announcement about the change. Premium residency status, available for a one-time payment of 800,000 riyals ($213,000), now includes this previously restricted privilege.