Saudi Arabia appears to have taken another step in relaxing its historically stringent alcohol restrictions, with reports indicating that certain foreign residents have successfully purchased alcohol from the kingdom’s sole liquor store. Initially opened in Riyadh in January 2024, the store was originally intended to serve only non-Muslim diplomats. However, premium visa holders have confirmed that the rules have been quietly adjusted to include them. One such resident shared, ‘I heard about it from friends who tried it. I went there two days ago and it actually worked. It saved me a lot of money rather than buying from the black market. Prices are reasonable, and we finally can buy alcohol.’ The premium resident status, introduced in 2019, is available to a select group of foreigners who meet specific criteria, including a one-time payment of 800,000 riyals ($213,000). While the Saudi government has not officially acknowledged this change, it signifies a notable shift in a country that has enforced a total alcohol ban since 1952. This ban was instituted following a tragic incident involving Prince Mishari bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and British diplomat Cyril Ousman, which led to the prince’s life imprisonment and the subsequent prohibition of alcohol. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has implemented several social reforms, including allowing women to drive, hosting public concerts, and opening cinemas. However, the loosening of alcohol restrictions may provoke backlash from conservative Muslims who view its consumption as forbidden by Islamic law. Historically, alcohol consumption in Saudi Arabia has been punishable by fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for foreigners. This latest development reflects the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to modernize its society while balancing traditional values.