Alcohol Regulations In Saudi Arabia: What Visitors Should Know

In Saudi Arabia, it is against the law to produce, sell, possess, or consume alcohol. Drinking alcohol in Saudi Arabia carries penalties such as fines, lengthy jail terms, or even deportation in some situations. Keep reading the blog post below to obtain all the essential information you should know about Saudi alcohol.

Does Saudi Arabia Allow Alcohol?

Saudi Arabia, known for its strict adherence to Islamic law, prohibits the sale, consumption, and possession of alcohol. This Saudi alcohol ban history is rooted in the country's interpretation of Sharia law, which views alcohol consumption as haram (forbidden). Unlike some other Muslim-majority countries that have more lenient laws regarding alcohol, Saudi Arabia maintains one of the strictest stances on this issue.

Saudi Arabia alcohol rule

Saudi Alcohol Laws

The legal framework surrounding alcohol in Saudi Arabia is unequivocal. Breach of Saudi alcohol laws may result in harsh consequences such as heavy fines, incarceration, and physical punishment. The Saudi government enforces these laws rigorously, and there are frequent reports of raids on illegal distilleries and the smuggling of alcohol. Border checks and inspections at airports and seaports are thorough, aiming to curtail any attempts to bring alcohol into the Kingdom.

Naturally, trading in alcohol may lead to a heavier sentence. Any residents or tourists who are caught selling alcohol to Saudi citizens may be punished with harsher penalties:

The following are covered by import prohibitions:

• Alcohol-flavored products.
• Alcohol flavoring extracts.
• Cooking wines.
• Wine-making kits.
• Alcohol books on producing such beverages or dishes using alcohol or extracts as a component.
• Distillation equipment.

Saudi Alcohol Rules for Tourism

Tourism in Saudi Arabia has been on the rise, especially since the launch of the Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce its dependence on oil. However, despite the influx of tourists, the Saudi alcohol rules for tourism remain unchanged. Tourists must abide by the same laws as residents, and ignorance of the law is not considered an excuse.

Saudi Arabia alcohol rules for tourism

Alcohol in Saudi Hotels

Unlike some other conservative regions that might allow alcohol consumption within the confines of international hotels, Saudi Arabia does not make such exceptions. All hotels, regardless of their star rating or international affiliation, are prohibited from serving alcohol. This rule applies to hotel restaurants, bars, and private minibars in guest rooms. Tourists should be aware that attempting to bring alcohol into hotel premises can result in severe penalties.

As the government moves forward with its transformative Vision 2030 development plan, which includes the establishment of a tourism offering large hotels, resorts, entertainment venues, sporting locations, and (currently alcohol-free) restaurants and bars, further relaxation of alcohol laws is expected to impose. Sensitive measures, like the relaxation of alcohol rules for non-Muslims, will, nonetheless, be implemented gradually and deliberately to prevent upsetting the more traditional segments of Saudi society.

In addition, hotels in Saudi Arabia offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails to cater to guests who are accustomed to having a drink. Additionally, luxury hotels often provide an array of leisure activities and amenities to ensure guests have an enjoyable stay without the need for alcoholic beverages.

Details Regarding Saudi’s First Alcohol Store

Saudi Arabia is about to open its first liquor store in the last over 70 years. This aims to reduce the illicit alcohol manufacture and trafficking in the Kingdom. Furthermore, the establishment of the Saudi alcohol store aligns with Saudi Arabia's recent efforts to advance economic diversification and liberalization to move away from its long-standing reliance on oil.

The first Saudi alcohol store

Who can access the Saudi Arabian liquor shop?

Non-Muslim diplomats are the only ones allowed to access the newly opened store. Previously, the Saudi Government permitted them to enter the Kingdom with alcohol through sealed official parcels called diplomatic pouches.

Thanks to this brand-new alcohol store, diplomats won't have to worry about bringing alcohol with them. They can keep it in storage until the end of their assignment and their departure from the nation.

For diplomats, this plan is quite convenient since it permits them to keep up their drinking habits while they are in the nation. Nevertheless, the program has been subject to several limitations.

Restrictions of Saudi Arabia’s liquor shop

Although the establishment of the liquor store provides non-Muslim diplomats a place to satisfy their alcohol preferences, there are particular rules governing the consumption of alcohol there:

• Individuals aged under 21 are not allowed to enter the store.
• Each diplomat is allotted 240 points every month, and they are not allowed to use more than that amount. The following are the points allocated for each kind of beverage: Spirits are valued at six points per liter, three points for a liter of wine, and one point for a liter of beer.
• Authorization needs to be requested via an app. People can enter the shop after receiving official consent from the Government.
• When entering the store, buyers must dress in appropriate clothing, and cell phones are not allowed.
• Drinkers are prohibited from sending someone else to buy drinks on their behalf. The person who is allowed to make the alcohol purchase must be in the store in person.

In addition to the previously mentioned advice, be cautious and attentive to how you consume alcohol and behave in public thereafter.

Practical Advice for Tourists Regarding Beverage Consumption In Saudi Arabia

When visiting Saudi Arabia, tourists should understand and respect the country's strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption. Here is our useful advice regarding alcohol regulations in Saudi Arabia that you should be aware of:

• Respect Local Laws and Customs: Before you visit Saudi Arabia, familiarize yourself with the laws and traditions of the area. It is crucial to abide by the rules of the nation, and one such regulation is the ban on alcohol.
• Alternative Beverages: Instead of alcohol, let’s explore the variety of non-alcoholic options available there. Saudi Arabia has a rich tradition of serving flavorful beverages like coffee, tea, and fresh fruit juices.
• Social Etiquette: Be mindful of the cultural context in which you are traveling. Discussing or inquiring about alcohol can be considered disrespectful.
• Legal Consequences:  Be aware that breaking alcohol laws may lead to legal consequences. Always take precautions and follow the rules strictly to avoid any trouble that may cause your stay uncomfortable.

Conclusion

As the Kingdom has strict rules regarding alcohol, visitors should respect and be aware of the alcohol regulations when traveling to this nation. By understanding and adhering to Saudi alcohol laws, visitors can fully appreciate the unique cultural experience that this amazing country offers.