Saudi Arabia allows sale of alcohol to diplomats After fire in South Africa that killed 76: Suspect wanted to burn body in basement

After decades of imposing a nationwide alcohol ban, Saudi Arabia plans to allow the public sale of alcohol to “non-Muslim diplomats” in the future, according to a media report. A new store will open in the diplomatic district of the capital Riyadh, the Financial Times, which was able to view guidelines for the new store, reported on Thursday. Only registered and non-Muslim diplomats are allowed access. They should be able to buy 40 liters of spirits, 80 liters of wine or 240 liters of beer per month.

There was initially no official confirmation from Saudi authorities or the government. Apparently, the new company aims to more strictly regulate the purchase and consumption of alcohol by diplomats and their guests in the country. In the kingdom, diplomats can currently import alcohol from their sending countries, import it themselves in diplomatic baggage or buy it from shops at their own embassy. Alcohol is often served at diplomatic receptions, and there is also a black market.

Under the de facto rule of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, many social rules have been relaxed in Saudi Arabia in recent years. There has been repeated speculation as to whether the sale of alcohol could soon be allowed, for example in the future city of ‘Neom’, which is currently being built on the Red Sea. The crown prince wants to turn the country into a regional hub for trade and finance, among other things, and open it up to international tourism.

In other Gulf countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, the sale of alcohol to non-Muslims is sometimes allowed in hotels or certain restaurants. In Saudi Arabia, many cafes, restaurants and retailers now offer a wide choice of non-alcoholic cocktails, as well as non-alcoholic beers and wines. (saw/sda/dpa)