Just imagine changing a 73-year-old rule for a sports tournament is something brilliant. Saudi Arabia will allow alcohol sales by 2026, and all of this will happen to build up for the FIFA World Cup 2034.
Before the FIFA World Cup, though, Saudi Arabia has the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, which is aimed at global tourism. To make it happen for international tourists, 600 designated tourist locations will allow sales of alcohol. Let’s find out in detail.
Rule Change For Alcohol Consumption in Saudi Arabia
As the new regulation comes through, Saudi Arabia will allow alcohol sales, which is quite a positive step towards international tourism and sports.
Under the new rule, alcoholic beverages like wine, beer, and cider will be available in select venues like 5-star hotels, luxury resorts, and expatriate compounds.
Meanwhile, drinks with a presence of more than 20% alcohol content will not be allowed. To sell alcohol, you will need to be licensed. Furthermore, sales of alcohol in public spaces, private residences, and retail outlets are still banned.
The authorities of Saudi Arabia have clarified that the controlled rollout of alcohol will uphold the Islamic values, and the strict licensing requirements, trained personnel, and compliance mechanisms will keep the values of the culture in place.
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Prince Khalid Bin Bandar Al Saud’s Views on the Alcohol Ban Lift
It is fair to say that the lifting of the alcohol ban in a limited amount is a historic event in the country. The prince talking to LBC radio stated that everyone has their own culture, and it is critical to respect that.
The prince also explained that they are happy to accommodate everyone, setting the boundaries of our culture, and the culture can be leased out as per needs. Khalid also emphasised that the 2030 Expo and the World Cup aren’t Saudi events but world events, and he welcomes everyone.
Saudi Arabia Following Other Gulf Countries
Fans of football or general football would be shocked to know that Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are the two Gulf countries with a ban on alcohol.
Even Qatar lifted the alcohol ban to include people from all backgrounds during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Similarly, Dubai also followed the same path of limited alcohol serving, which has boosted the tourism of the country.
With the vision of getting international investments and interest, Saudi Arabia is also following the rule of a limited alcohol ban, which could be a historic step for development.
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