Saudi Arabia to Open Two New Alcohol Stores for Foreigners

An employee pours a draft non-alcoholic beer at the A12 cafe in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November 24, 2025.

Saudi Arabia plans to open two new alcohol stores, including one for non-Muslim staff at state oil giant Aramco, as the kingdom continues to ease restrictions, according to sources familiar with the plans.

The outlets are expected in Dhahran and Jeddah and would mark another step in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s drive to open up the country. Last year, Saudi Arabia opened its first alcohol store in Riyadh for non-Muslim diplomats, ending a 73-year ban.

The Dhahran store will operate within an Aramco compound for non-Muslim employees, while the Jeddah store will serve foreign diplomats, sources said. Both are anticipated to open in 2026, though exact timelines have not been confirmed.

Authorities have not officially commented, and Aramco declined to respond. The Riyadh store’s customer base has recently expanded to include non-Muslim holders of Saudi Premium Residency, granted to entrepreneurs, major investors, and individuals with special talents.

Before the Riyadh store opened, alcohol was mainly accessible through diplomatic channels, black market sales, or home brewing. While still largely prohibited for the general population, reforms under bin Salman have gradually allowed Saudis and foreigners to participate in previously restricted activities, such as attending cinemas and music events.

The easing of restrictions is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader plan to attract tourists and international businesses and reduce reliance on oil. While ultra-luxury developments, including Red Sea resorts, remain alcohol-free, officials have hinted at cautious steps to accommodate international visitors’ preferences.

Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb stated that, while there is recognition of tourists’ interest in alcohol, no official changes have yet been implemented.