Saudi Arabia Quietly Expands Alcohol Access to Elite Foreign Residents

Saudi Arabia, long known for its strict alcohol ban spanning more than seven decades, has quietly extended access to alcoholic beverages to a select group of wealthy foreign residents, according to a report by The New York Times.

A discreet store in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter—once restricted to diplomats—has begun selling whiskey, champagne, and wine to non-Muslim expatriates who hold the kingdom’s exclusive “premium residency” permits. Five customers confirmed the development to the newspaper, speaking anonymously due to sensitivities around the issue and fears of losing their access.

Premium residency is granted to highly skilled or affluent foreigners working in vital industries such as healthcare, technology, and government-linked organizations. While the shift marks a significant departure from long-standing norms, there has been no official announcement signaling any change to Saudi alcohol policy.

Activity around the unmarked store suggests demand is high. High-end SUVs reportedly queue outside the gated facility, and a receipt reviewed by the Times shows a mid-range bottle of white wine selling for about $85—more than five times its typical U.S. retail price.

The operation appears intertwined with government systems. Entry is controlled through a smartphone app developed by Saudi Arabia’s tax and customs authority, and purchases are capped monthly using customer ID numbers. Officials declined to comment on the report.

The quiet expansion aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s sweeping economic and social reforms. Over the past decade, the kingdom has eased restrictions on women, hosted mixed-gender public events, and relaxed several conservative norms. Analysts believe controlled alcohol access could help attract top global talent, stimulate tourism, and support revenue goals—while still balancing the country’s conservative religious landscape.