Rules regarding alcohol relaxed in Saudi Arabia for non-Muslim diplomats
In a historic move, Saudi Arabia is set to permit alcohol
sales to non-Muslim diplomats, ending a 70-year prohibition. This significant
shift modifies the stringent regulations governing liquor in Saudi Arabia,
allowing non-Muslim diplomats to purchase alcohol locally instead of importing
it through diplomatic channels.
The sales will be facilitated through a designated store in
Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, a locality housing foreign missions and
residences. Access to the store will be limited to individuals registered on
the Diplo App, and monthly quotas will be enforced. The store will strictly
cater to non-Muslims, with age restrictions and proper attire requirements in
place.
Saudi
National Day marks Saudi Arabia's remarkable progress towards Vision 2030 Goals
Prohibition has been entrenched in Saudi Arabia since 1952.
The recent policy change comes amid broader social reforms introduced as part
of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 agenda, including the
establishment of cinemas and mixed-gender music festivals.
The Saudi government emphasized the implementation of a new
regulatory framework to combat illicit alcohol trade and control the influx of
alcohol goods to diplomatic missions. The policy aims to ensure regulated and
specific quantities of alcohol when entering the Kingdom, replacing the
previous uncontrolled exchange of such goods.
Saudi
Arabia’s 'Vision 2030' demonstrates remarkable progress in economic
transformation
The quota system allows authorized individuals to purchase
alcohol in "points," with specific values assigned to different
types. Aiming for a post-oil economy, Vision 2030 seeks to transform Saudi
Arabia into a business, tourism, and sports hub, increasing its global
competitiveness. The decision aligns with the country's economic strategy,
notably as it competes with regional neighbors for foreign investment and
tourism.
Source: https://www.newindianexpress.com/
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