Saudi Arabia Eases Alcohol Ban for Expats; Long Queues Form in Riyadh

• Saudi Arabia has expanded alcohol access to non-Muslim foreign citizens with premium residency permits at a discreet store in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter.
• This move, following initial access for diplomats, is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's reforms to attract tourism and diversify the economy.
• Despite the change, a strict alcohol ban remains for the general public, with high prices, limited options, and stringent security at the unnamed store.
• The decision, though not formally announced, led to long queues, reflecting a significant cultural shift while social stigma around alcohol persists.
• Many Saudis still travel to Bahrain or Dubai for easier access to alcohol, highlighting the limited nature of the current relaxation.

Why It Matters: Saudi Arabia cautiously relaxes its alcohol ban for select expats, a step in broader economic reforms.