Media reports that Saudi Arabia will lift its decades-old ban on alcohol in select tourist zones have prompted the flare-up of a vigorous online debate in the conservative kingdom, with some voices in support and others in strong opposition.
Newsweek has contacted the Saudi Ministry of Tourism and the government’s Center for International Communication for comment. The government has previously said it has no intention of lifting the ban.
Why It Matters
The media reports sourced to a government statement and to unidentified authorities come as Saudi Arabia gears up for preparations to host the 2030 World Expo and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a key ally to President Donald Trump, has also pushed to rebrand the country as more moderate to attract foreign tourism, especially to megaprojects such as NEOM.
The kingdom has already stirred some backlash for hosting international female performers, but legalizing alcohol would be a more controversial leap.
What To Know
Media reported that the ban on alcohol sales would be lifted at 600 sites this year in an attempt to attract tourists as part of the Gulf state’s Vision 2030.
“Sales will only happen under controlled environments, with licensed service staff and clear operational rules in place to make sure alcohol is handled responsibly and respectfully,” according to a government statement quoted by Metro.
The consumption, possession or sale of alcohol are crimes that can lead to jail sentences, fines or flogging.
In Islam, consuming alcohol is viewed as haram, meaning it is religiously prohibited. This stance is often supported by a verse in the Quran which refers to intoxicating substances as “the work of Satan” and urges followers to stay away from them. Scholars and religious leaders also refer to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and emphasize the harmful consequences associated with alcohol use.
Alcohol was banned in 1952 in Saudi Arabia, which is home to Islam’s holiest sites, but there is an underground market in illegal alcohol.
Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, ambassador to the United Kingdom, has advised football fans not to expect alcohol at the 2034 World Cup.
When Qatar hosted the World Cup in 2022 it had initially said it would ease restrictions on alcohol sales, but reimposed them days before the tournament.
What People Are Saying
A user by the name of Fahad on X: “Alcoholic beverages are present in all countries of the world without exception. Why are they prohibited in the Kingdom? Why not in Mecca or Medina? They are part of the tourism project and our economic project.”
A user by the name of Elhameed Saeed on X: “That’s misinformation. Saudi Arabia hasn’t announced any plan to legalize alcohol. The Kingdom is modernizing in many ways — but always within the framework of its Islamic values. Don’t confuse development with abandoning principles.”
A user by the name Jugglerofcats on Reddit: “They won’t. After the tickets are sold and hotel bookings made, they’ll likely go back on their word like Qatar did a week before the tournament starts.”
What Happens Next
If Saudi Arabia lifts its alcohol ban at some locations, particularly with a view to the hosting of global events, restrictions are likely to remain for local Muslims.
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