A Toast in 2034? Saudi Arabia Breaks Silence on Alcohol Ban Rumours

Here's what Riyadh says on international media reports amid ongoing reforms under Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia on Monday refuted reports stating that it would be ending its long-time alcohol ban as part of efforts to prepare for the hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2034. 

The reports, which started from a wine website and were grabbed by several global news outlets, indicated that the kingdom was mulling selling alcohol in tourist resorts. Saudi officials, however, strongly refuted the reports, describing them as unfounded.

Rumors Spark Online Debate

The rumor spurned a frenzy of reaction on social media, particularly considering Saudi Arabia’s role as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina, the most sacred places in Islam. Most of the citizens expressed firmer opposition, citing religious or cultural grounds, while a few speculated that limited reforms might one day be attempted as a concession toward international tourism.

According to the initial report, which did not cite any official source, sales of controlled beverages might be allowed in some upmarket resorts and tourist areas as part of broader nation-building efforts for the impending World Cup and the Expo 2030 hosting.

Alcohol Ban Remains Intact

Saudi Arabia also prohibits liquor on religious grounds, with Kuwait being an exception in the Gulf. There have been very occasional relaxations, for example, an alcohol shop was opened in Riyadh in 2023 for non-Muslim ambassadors. But by-and-large, sale, consumption, and possession of alcoholic beverages by regular residents are illegal acts and penalized with fines, imprisonment, or deportation.

There is no signal from the government that a wide relaxation is on the way. Officials asserted that the country’s laws remain solidly based on Islamic values, and any future developments would be applied with great caution, if even all.

MBS’s Reform Agenda and Controlled Liberalization

Under the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has witnessed many reforms. These reforms were intended to broaden the range of opportunities in an oil-based economy. Among these reforms were permitting women to drive, easing male guardianship laws, and rescinding much of the authority of the religious police.

Tourism and entertainment industries have also witnessed unprecedented expansion, with global concerts, cinemas, desert parties, and fashion shows becoming a part of the country’s changing social landscape. However, alcohol is still a cultural red line for most Saudis.

Future Speculation

Although some reports, including one by The Economic Times, indicate that liquor could be legalized under tight control in certain places by 2026, authorities have not announced anything on those lines. If adopted, such places would presumably be restricted to hotels and resorts, and beer, wine, and cider would be on the menu, but not hard liquor.

For the time being, the 73-year-old ban on alcohol in the cradle of Islam continues unabated. Any change would necessitate a delicate balance between modernity and religious practice.