RIYADH – The Saudi government on Wednesday officially acknowledged information reported by state-controlled media regarding the implementation of additional restrictions on the importation of alcohol within diplomatic shipments.
The Centre of International Communication (CIC) in the kingdom stated that these new measures aim to combat the illicit trade of alcoholic products being received by diplomatic missions.
In a statement provided to foreign media, the CIC assured that the introduced regulations would continue to facilitate and ensure access to these products for diplomats from non-Muslim embassies, specifying allocated quotas.
To address the previous unregulated flow of alcohol goods in the kingdom, the CIC outlined that the new process would specifically allocate quantities of such goods upon entry, putting an end to the previously uncontrolled exchange.
The facility is slated to open in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, and will implement a registration process through a dedicated app. Customers will be required to obtain approval from the foreign ministry and adhere to monthly consumption limits.
This initiative aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s efforts to modernise Saudi Arabia’s image, moving away from the ultra-conservative interpretation of Islam that shapes its laws.
Recent liberalization measures include easing restrictions on women, such as lifting the ban on driving.
Although Saudi law strictly prohibits alcohol, there exists a black market, and authorities often overlook home brewing and alcohol consumption in foreigner-populated compounds.
Riyadh has witnessed the emergence of bars offering non-alcoholic cocktails.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman aims to attract foreign tourism and substantial investments as part of the Vision 2030 plan, steering the country away from fossil fuel dependence.
