Official rebuts online rumors, saying kingdom’s strict prohibition on alcohol remains despite economic and social reforms
May 27, 2025: Dubai: Saudi Arabia has firmly denied media reports claiming it would lift its decades-old alcohol ban ahead of the 2034 FIFA World Cup. An official statement on Monday dismissed the speculation, which began circulating after a wine blog reported plans to introduce controlled alcohol sales in the conservative kingdom.
The blog, lacking an identified source, suggested that authorities in Saudi Arabia were preparing to allow alcohol in an effort to accommodate World Cup tourists. The claim sparked heated online discussions in the Gulf state, where the ruling monarch also holds the title of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has spearheaded a wave of reforms to modernize the Saudi economy and boost tourism, including allowing women to drive and loosening restrictions on gender segregation in public. However, the kingdom remains committed to a strict ban on alcohol for its citizens and residents, enforced with severe penalties.
Although the country opened its first alcohol store in Riyadh last year—exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats—Saudi law still forbids alcohol consumption by citizens and most foreigners. Previously, alcohol was available only through diplomatic mail or illicit black market sources.
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The existing ban, in place for 73 years, can carry punishments ranging from deportation and fines to imprisonment. In recent years, authorities have largely replaced corporal punishment, such as lashes, with prison terms for alcohol offenses.
The clarification comes as Saudi Arabia aims to project a modern and welcoming image to the world while balancing deep religious traditions. For now, the kingdom has made no official plans to relax its ban on alcohol, even as preparations for the 2034 World Cup continue.
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Saudi Arabia, Alcohol Ban, FIFA World Cup 2034, MBS, Riyadh alcohol store, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, social reforms, Middle East, religion, tourism