Saudi Arabia to Allow Alcohol Sales in 2026 with Strict Rules

Saudi Arabia will start allowing the sale and limited use of alcohol in 2026. This will happen under strict rules and licenses. The change is part of the country’s plans to get ready for big international events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034, reports said.

For a long time, since 1952, Saudi Arabia has banned alcohol. No one, whether a citizen or a visitor, was allowed to drink alcoholic drinks.

The new rules will apply to about 600 places across the country. These places include fancy five-star hotels, luxury resorts, diplomatic areas, and special tourist spots like Neom, Sindalah Island, and the Red Sea Project.

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Only certain kinds of alcohol will be allowed in these places. Beer, wine, and cider can be served, but drinks with more than 20% alcohol, like hard liquors or spirits, will still be banned.

People will not be allowed to have alcohol at home, in public places, or in shops. They also cannot make their own alcohol. The rules are only for places that mainly serve tourists and foreign workers.

Alcohol sales will only happen in approved places. Only trained and licensed staff will be allowed to serve drinks. There will be clear rules to make sure everything is done responsibly and safely, respecting the country’s traditions.

If someone breaks the rules or misuses alcohol, they will face punishment. The government wants to keep control while also supporting the economy.

This plan is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to grow the country’s economy by focusing more on tourism, entertainment, and hotels. Officials believe this new alcohol policy will help create jobs and bring in money from other countries.

Many big hotel companies around the world are already preparing for these new rules to work in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia is carefully changing its alcohol laws to welcome visitors and grow its economy, while making sure its culture and safety stay strong.