Saudi Arabia Expands Alcohol Access for Wealthy Non-Muslims

Saudi Arabia has reformed its alcohol sales policy, now permitting non-Muslim expatriates to buy alcoholic beverages under specific financial conditions. As reported by the New York Times, this regulation targets individuals earning a minimum of 50,000 riyals per month—approximately ₹11 lakhs. To make a purchase at the sole retail outlet in Riyadh, buyers need to provide an identification card along with a salary certificate.

The Riyadh store, which commenced operations last year catering primarily to foreign diplomats, has recently begun serving non-Muslims who hold premium residency, commonly referred to as the Saudi Green Card. This initiative, introduced in 2019, enables skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors to reside and own property in the Kingdom. Eligibility requires candidates to be at least 21 years of age, clear a medical examination, hold a clean criminal record, and demonstrate adequate financial capability to support themselves and their families.

The announcement has ignited lively discussions on social media, with many criticizing the initiative as disproportionately benefiting the affluent. Users remarked, “Requiring proof of income for wine is absurd” and “It's amusing that the poor are excluded from alcohol purchases.” Observations have emerged, highlighting that this policy predominantly aids wealthy tourists and high-earning residents, sidelining average workers.

This development is indicative of Saudi Arabia's ongoing modernization efforts aimed at attracting international talent, yet it underscores the economic disparity among its residents. The initiative is viewed as a measured approach to easing restrictions for non-Muslims while keeping a tight rein on alcohol distribution.

With this new regulation, affluent non-Muslim holders of premium residency can legally acquire alcohol in Riyadh, signaling a significant shift in the Kingdom’s stance regarding these practices.