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Saudi Arabia to Open First Liquor Shop on Condition 

January 24, 2024
435 1 minute read
Saudi Arabia to Open First Liquor Shop on Condition 
A set of liquor glasses at a booze chilling spot.

Saudi Arabia is set to open its first liquor shop in decades.

But the shop, located in the capital Riyadh, will only serve non-Muslim, foreign diplomats who have a special license to buy and consume alcohol.

The move is part of the kingdom’s efforts to relax some of its strict social rules and attract more foreign investment and tourism, as it seeks to diversify its oil-dependent economy.

Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has introduced several reforms in recent years, such as allowing women to drive, lifting the ban on cinemas and concerts, and permitting mixed-gender gatherings.

Alcohol, which is forbidden in Islam, has been illegal in Saudi Arabia since the 1950s, and anyone caught drinking or smuggling it can face harsh penalties, including flogging, imprisonment and deportation.

Despite the ban, alcohol is available on the black market and in some private compounds where foreigners live and work.

The new liquor shop, which will be operated by a state-owned company, will offer a range of alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer and spirits, to diplomats who have a valid ID and a quota.

The shop is expected to open in the coming weeks, according to Bloomberg.

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January 24, 2024
435 1 minute read
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Lawrence Baraza

Lawrence Baraza is a dynamic journalist currently overseeing content at Metropol TV Digital. With a keen focus on business news and analytics, Lawrence guides the platform in delivering insightful, data-driven content that empowers its audience to make informed decisions. Lawrence’s commitment to quality and his ability to anticipate market trends make him a key figure in the digital media landscape. His work continues to shape the way business news is consumed, making a significant impact in the field.

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