"Saudi Arabia Launches First Alcohol Store in 70+ Years, Limited to Diplomats and Non-Muslims"

Saudi Arabia has opened its first liquor store in over 70 years, located in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter and restricted to non-Muslim diplomats, as part of the kingdom's efforts to liberalize socially and economically. The store stocks liquor, wine, and two types of beer, with purchases made through a mobile app on an allotment system. This move comes amid Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's plans to diversify the economy and attract tourism, but challenges persist due to international reputation and conservative Islamic mores. The kingdom has banned alcohol since the 1950s, and while the recent opening signals social change, strict laws and sensitivities remain regarding alcohol consumption in the country.
- Saudi Arabia opens its first liquor store in over 70 years as kingdom further liberalizes The Associated Press
- Saudi Arabia to open first store selling alcohol: Reuters Business Insider
- Saudi Arabia To Open First Alcohol Store, But Only For Diplomats | Middle East | N18V | News18 CNN-News18
- Saudi Arabia opens its first-ever alcohol store — but it's only accessible to a select group CNBC
- First alcohol store to come up in Saudi Arabia for non-Muslim diplomats Deccan Herald
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