Riyadh, May 26, 2025 – A senior Saudi official has dismissed recent speculation that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, is planning to lift its decades-long prohibition on alcohol. The rumors, which surfaced on a wine-focused blog last week and were amplified by some international outlets, suggested that Saudi authorities were considering allowing alcohol sales in tourist areas as part of preparations for hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The official clarified that no such policy change is under consideration, emphasizing the Kingdom’s commitment to its cultural and religious values.
The unfounded report sparked lively discussions online within Saudi Arabia, a nation where alcohol has been banned since 1952. The Kingdom’s leadership, including King Salman, who holds the title of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, upholds the prohibition in line with Islamic teachings that forbid alcohol consumption for Muslims. The debate highlighted the tension between Saudi Arabia’s rapid modernization efforts and its deep-rooted traditions.
Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has pursued bold reforms to diversify its economy and enhance its global appeal. These include lifting the ban on women driving in 2017, relaxing gender segregation rules, and introducing entertainment options like concerts, fashion events, and movie theaters—activities once unimaginable in the conservative Gulf state. However, alcohol remains strictly off-limits for the general public.
The only exception to the alcohol ban is a specialized store in Riyadh, opened in 2024, catering exclusively to non-Muslim diplomats. This tightly controlled outlet reflects the Kingdom’s cautious approach to balancing its global outreach with its Islamic principles. Outside of diplomatic channels, alcohol remains unavailable except through illicit means.
As Saudi Arabia gears up to host the 2034 World Cup, the Kingdom is focused on showcasing its cultural heritage and modern developments while maintaining its religious identity. The official reiterated that any claims of loosening alcohol restrictions are baseless and urged the public to rely on verified sources for information about the Kingdom’s policies.
The clarification comes as Saudi Arabia continues to attract international attention for its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to transform the country into a global hub for tourism and business. While the Kingdom welcomes visitors with open arms, it remains steadfast in preserving the values that define its identity.
