Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Saudi Arabia has relaxed its rules on alcohol sales, allowing non-Muslim foreign residents to make purchases if they meet certain income requirements. According to the New York Times, this applies only to those earning 50,000 riyals per month or more, roughly ₹11 lakhs. Buyers must present an ID card and a salary certificate to purchase liquor from the country’s only store in Riyadh.
The Riyadh outlet, which opened last year, initially served only foreign diplomats. Recently, it has extended service to non-Muslims holding premium residency, also known as the Saudi Green Card. This residency program, launched in 2019, allows skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to live, work, and own property in Saudi Arabia. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, pass a medical exam, have no criminal record, and show sufficient financial resources to support themselves and dependents.
Social media users reacted strongly to the news, criticizing the policy as favoring the wealthy. Comments included, “Proof of income for a bottle of wine is crazy” and “No alcohol for the poor is hilarious.” Many pointed out that the rule seems to benefit rich tourists and high-income residents while ordinary workers are excluded.
The move reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its laws and attract global talent, but it also highlights the social divide between residents with high income and others. The policy is seen as a step toward relaxing strict regulations for non-Muslims while maintaining control over alcohol sales.
With this update, non-Muslims with premium residency and verified income can now legally buy alcohol in Riyadh, marking a notable change in the Kingdom’s approach to such regulations.
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