Saudi Arabia further eases alcohol restrictions according to residents

Saudi Arabia has reportedly eased its alcohol restrictions, allowing foreign residents with premium visas to purchase alcohol from the kingdom's sole liquor store in Riyadh. This store was initially opened in January 2024 exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats. The change, while not officially confirmed by the government, is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's broader social reforms under the Vision 2030 plan. These reforms, which include modernizing the country to attract foreign investment and tourism, contrast with the kingdom's strict alcohol ban that has been in place since 1952.