Saudi Arabia is slowly expanding alcohol access across the country, with the planned opening of two liquor stores in Jeddah and Dhahran and claims that the country will issue more liquor licences to hotels and restaurants.
The country opened its first liquor store in Riyadh last year, following decades of prohibition. The store initially sold only to foreign diplomats, however Reuters confirmed that it had opened its sales to expat holders of premium residency status this year.
Multiple publications also claim that the Saudi government is considering issuing liquor licences to tourism and hospitality establishments, including hotels and restaurants, which in recent years have been permitted to have built-in bars. The government is yet to make a formal announcement.
