A Booze Ban Since the ’50s Is Being Quietly Lifted in Saudi Arabia | Hindustan Times
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Thu, Jan 01, 2026
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In Riyadh, some non-Muslims have recently been able to buy booze.

A Booze Ban Since the ’50s Is Being Quietly Lifted in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is allowing some residents, particularly non-Muslim expatriates with premium residency status, to buy alcohol, signaling a shift in its conservative policies as it seeks to modernize and boost tourism. This change, part of broader reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflects the kingdom's efforts to attract foreign investments while navigating traditional societal norms.

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