In this holy Muslim country, the ban on alcohol will be lifted after 73 years! Know why such a big decision was taken

Saudi Arabia is now preparing to partially lift the ban on alcohol. Know the strategy behind this decision, MBS's reforms and the role of World Expo 2030.

Saudi Arabia Alcohol Ban: Saudi Arabia is an Islamic country, known for its strict adherence to Sharia laws. Now for the first time in its history, it is moving towards allowing alcohol sales publicly. This decision is being taken with the aim of promoting tourism and preparing the country for international events like World Expo 2030. Alcohol was banned with the formation of Saudi Arabia in 1932, but more stringent laws were made on it in 1952. However, now 73 years later, this is considered a major social change in the history of Saudi Arabia.

After coming to power, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MBS) has made many such reforms in the country which were once considered unimaginable. Under his rule, women were allowed to drive. Public entertainment like cinema and music programs were promoted. The process of providing visa to foreign tourists was made easy. After this, giving partial exemption on alcohol is being considered a big decision. MBS's view on alcohol is that it is a big step towards establishing global harmony while maintaining cultural and religious values.

Where will you get alcohol? What will be the rules?

According to the Saudi government's proposal, alcohol will be available only at 600 tourist places. It will be sold only in licensed 5-star hotels, resorts and foreign zones. Drinks with more than 20% alcohol will still be banned. The ban will still continue for local citizens. Keeping or drinking alcohol in public places, shops, or homes will still be a crime. This policy is only for non-Muslim foreign tourists who want to get an experience like competing countries like Dubai, Bahrain.

World Expo 2030 and Football World Cup 2034

Saudi Arabia is going to host the World Expo in 2030 and the FIFA Football World Cup in 2034. Keeping in mind the needs of foreign tourists and delegates at such international events, the Saudi government has taken steps towards reform. The World Expo 2030, which will be held in Riyadh from 1 October 2030 to 31 March 2031, is a platform where countries from around the world showcase their culture, technology and development. The relaxation on alcohol is being done keeping in mind the needs of this global platform.

The first liquor shop opened in 2024

The first liquor shop was opened in the diplomatic zone of Riyadh in 2024. It was opened only for non-Muslim foreign diplomats. For this, the identification of customers and purchases were controlled by a mobile app. However, carrying mobile phones in the shop was prohibited. This was a controlled and limited experiment of Saudi's new policy, which found out how reforms can be implemented without hurting religious sentiments.

PC:ABPNews