Muslims prefer to drink mocktails or non-alcoholic drinks
We are aware that Muslims prefer not to consume alcohol and opt for mocktails instead. However, in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom is taking steps to modernize and westernize by permitting the opening of the first alcohol shop in 70 years.
The customers allowed will be limited to diplomatic staff, as reported by local sources. These individuals have been illicitly importing alcohol for years, and now it will be legally available to them.
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Prohibition has been in effect in Saudi Arabia since 1952, following a tragic incident where one of King Abdulaziz’s sons, Mishari bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, shot and killed a British diplomat in 1951. The new alcohol store is set to open in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, according to documents seen by AFP and Reuters.
The shop is expected to open soon with certain restrictions in place:
- Customers must register in advance and obtain government clearance
- Only individuals over 21 years old will be allowed in the store, and proper attire is mandatory
- No proxies are permitted, such as drivers, to make purchases
- Monthly limits on alcohol purchases will be enforced
Other regulations include a limit of 240 “points” of alcohol per month for patrons. Different types of alcohol carry different point values.
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Tourists and foreigners are expected to have similar allowances in the future.
Despite the introduction of alcohol in Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to remember Sharia laws. Penalties for alcohol consumption or possession can include fines, jail time, public flogging, and deportation for unauthorized foreigners.
These changes are part of a broader initiative known as “Vision 2030” aimed at modernizing Saudi society under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Similar alcohol programs are in operation in other Gulf states. While wine has never been prohibited in Israel, it holds a significant cultural and historical significance.
Wine production in the Middle East dates back thousands of years and has biblical references. Despite changes in alcohol regulations, other vices like drug abuse continue to be prevalent in the region.
According to the US Department of State, heroin and hashish are among the most consumed substances in Saudi Arabia, with reports of cocaine and amphetamines demand. Additionally, abuse of prescription drugs and inhalants like paint and glue are reported.
