New rules on alcohol in Saudi Arabia have been revealed ahead of the reported opening of the first-ever liquor store in the capital Riyadh. The rules regulating alcohol quotas for non-Muslim diplomatic missions are being introduced to “counter the illicit trade of alcohol goods,” the governmental Center of International Communication (CIC) said in a statement. Reuters cited a source familiar with the plans, and a document, saying that Saudi Arabia is preparing to open its first alcohol store in the capital Riyadh which will serve exclusively non-Muslim diplomats. Alcohol sale and consumption in Saudi Arabia is strictly forbidden, and is punishable by lashes, deportations, fines and imprisonment. That has led to speculation that it could legalize alcohol in the Kingdom in the near future.

Source: CNN January 25, 2024 15:44 UTC