Saudi Official Denies Reports of Lifting Alcohol Ban

 

A Saudi Arabian government official has officially denied reports claiming that the kingdom plans to lift its longstanding 73-year ban on alcohol sales. The reports, which originated from a wine blog and were picked up by some international media, suggesting that Saudi authorities might legalize controlled alcohol sales ahead of the country’s hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, have been dismissed as false.

Saudi Arabia, a country where Islam’s teachings strictly prohibit alcohol, maintains severe penalties for drinking, including fines, imprisonment, deportation, or lashes. The government has taken only minor steps toward easing restrictions, such as opening an alcohol store in Riyadh last year exclusively for non-Muslim diplomats—alcohol remains largely inaccessible to the general public.

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Despite reforms spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to boost tourism and diversify the economy, alcohol remains officially prohibited in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the nation’s conservative religious stance.