Saudi Arabia is preparing to open two new alcohol stores, including one for non-Muslim employees at state oil giant Aramco, sources familiar with the plans told Reuters, as the kingdom continues to relax some of its strict regulations. The outlets, to be located in the eastern province of Dhahran and in the port city of Jeddah for diplomats, are part of a broader effort to gradually open up the country.
The Dhahran store will be situated within an Aramco compound and will cater to non-Muslim staff working for the state energy firm, according to one source. In Jeddah, a separate store is planned to serve non-Muslim diplomats, where many missions maintain honorary consuls. Both stores are expected to open in 2026, though no specific timelines have been confirmed. The government media office has not provided comment, and Aramco declined to respond to inquiries.
This move follows the opening of Saudi Arabia’s first alcohol outlet in Riyadh last year, which serves non-Muslim diplomats and, more recently, holders of the Saudi Premium Residency. Previously, alcohol was largely restricted to diplomatic channels, black market sales, or home brewing. While alcohol remains prohibited for the majority of Saudis, authorities have been easing other social restrictions, allowing citizens and visitors to participate in activities such as cinema visits and desert events, as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s reforms to diversify the economy and attract international investment.
Despite these openings, Saudi officials have emphasized a cautious approach. In May, media reports suggesting alcohol sales might be allowed in tourist areas ahead of the 2034 World Cup were denied, though they sparked widespread debate. Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb told Reuters this month that while authorities understand that international visitors may wish to consume alcohol, “nothing has changed yet,” leaving the door open for possible future adjustments. Meanwhile, major luxury developments, such as the Red Sea Global resorts, continue to operate as dry venues, underscoring the kingdom’s gradual approach to social liberalization.
