Saudi Arabia is reportedly considering a shift in its strict alcohol rules by allowing the sale of alcohol to non-Muslim diplomats for the first time.
The move is seen as a modification of the longstanding prohibition on alcohol in the conservative country.
Non-Muslim diplomats, who previously had to import alcohol via a diplomatic pouch, may soon have the option to purchase it locally.
Prohibition of alcohol in Saudi Arabia has been in place since 1952.
The proposed change is part of a broader set of social reforms introduced under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 initiative.
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The reforms include measures such as the introduction of cinemas and mixed-gender music festivals.
A Saudi government statement explained that the new regulatory framework aims to counter the illicit trade of alcohol and establish a controlled process for diplomats to access specific quantities of alcohol upon entering the kingdom.
The statement emphasized that the policy change would primarily affect diplomats of non-Muslim embassies and would not immediately impact the majority of the country’s population.
Saudi Arabia, known for its strict adherence to Islamic law, imposes severe penalties for the consumption or possession of alcohol, including fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for foreigners.
While there have been speculations and rumors about potential changes to the alcohol ban in the kingdom, the issue remains sensitive, given the religious and cultural context of Saudi Arabia.
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