Saudi Arabia Expands Alcohol Access: Premium Residents Can Now Buy Booze

• Saudi Arabia has quietly expanded access to its only alcohol store in Riyadh.
• The store, opened in Jan 2024 for diplomats, now serves non-Muslim foreigners with Premium Residency.
• This move is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's liberalization efforts to boost tourism and business.
• Alcohol remains banned for the general public; the discreet store operates with strict security and high prices.
• Premium Residency offers benefits like property ownership and no Saudi sponsor, requiring high income or investment.

Why It Matters: Saudi Arabia expands alcohol access for Premium Residents, signaling cautious liberalization for economic growth.