Saudi Arabia's Alcohol Ban: Royal Murder Triggered 1952 Prohibition, Still Strict Today

• Saudi Arabia's strict alcohol ban, often attributed to Islamic rules, was primarily triggered by a royal family incident 73 years ago.
• In 1951, intoxicated Prince Mishari bin Abdulaziz murdered British diplomat Cyril Ousman in Jeddah after being refused more alcohol.
• King Abdulaziz, facing international shame and British protest, imposed a complete ban on alcohol import, sale, and consumption in January 1952.
• Punishments for alcohol consumption include 100 lashes and prison for citizens, and deportation for foreigners.
• While Vision 2030 brings reforms like an alcohol store for non-Muslim diplomats, the ban remains for ordinary Saudi citizens and Muslims.

Why It Matters: A 1951 royal murder led King Abdulaziz to impose Saudi Arabia's enduring alcohol ban.