Can foreigners drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Asked by: Aurore Purdy | Last update: February 22, 2026Score: 4.1/5 (3 votes)
Yes, foreigners can drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia under very specific, recent changes, but it's limited to wealthy, non-Muslim residents with "premium residency" who can buy from a single store in Riyadh, while strict bans still apply to others, especially Saudi citizens and tourists, with severe penalties for violations. The rules are easing incrementally as part of Vision 2030 to attract talent, allowing non-Muslim expats earning over 50,000 riyals/month to purchase alcohol with a points system, but general consumption remains illegal for most.
Are tourists allowed to drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Things that are prohibited in Saudi Arabia
Some things simply shouldn't make it into your suitcase. That said, alcohol is strictly banned, and there are no exceptions for visitors or tourists.
Can foreigners bring alcohol to Saudi Arabia?
Can alcohol be brought into Saudi Arabia for personal use? No, bringing alcohol into the country, even for personal use, is illegal, and violators may face severe consequences.
Is Saudi Arabia totally alcohol free?
Islam, the predominant religion in Saudi Arabia, forbids alcohol consumption as it's considered intoxicating and harmful. Culturally, the kingdom sticks to conservative values that focus on moderation and social responsibility. To uphold these principles, the Saudi Arabian government enforces a complete ban on alcohol.
Does Saudi Arabia have liquor stores?
In recent weeks, the liquor store — previously open only to diplomats, who are exempt from the prohibition — has been selling to non-Muslim foreigners who hold an expensive “premium residency” permit, according to five customers interviewed by The New York Times.
Can You Drink Alcohol In Riyadh? - Middle East Explorers
What do Saudis drink instead of alcohol?
Coffee and tea are the most popular beverages in the Arab countries. While coffee might be preferred, tea is their must-have daily. Most people in the Middle East would drink several cups of tea everyday. The most common time for Arabian tea is before and after meals as well as during gatherings.
Can you smoke in Saudi Arabia?
Smoking in Saudi Arabia is banned in airports, workplaces, universities, research centers, hospitals, government buildings, all public places, places involved with tourism, and in and around all places associated with religion, education, public events, sporting establishments, charity associations, all forms of public ...
Does saudia serve alcohol?
No, Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) does not serve alcohol on any of its flights, nor does it permit passengers to bring or consume alcohol onboard due to Saudi Arabia's strict Islamic laws prohibiting alcoholic beverages, even in first or business class. As a "dry" airline, Saudia offers a range of non-alcoholic drinks, including juices, soft drinks, tea, and coffee, and passengers are forbidden from bringing alcohol into the country or consuming it on the plane.
Why is liquor banned in Saudi Arabia?
Alcohol has been banned in Saudi Arabia since 1952, shortly after the son of then-King Abdulaziz got drunk and, in a rage, shot dead a British diplomat. The ban on alcohol is still in place, a measure not uncommon in Muslim countries, where alcohol use is often restricted.
Is Riyadh safe for tourists?
Safety Measures for Travelers. Saudi Arabia is a conservative country with strict observance of Islamic and traditional Arabic cultural values. Women, religious people, and LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution. Travelers should inform themselves of Saudi cultural customs and observe them.
Can you sneak alcohol into Saudi Arabia?
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always followed the Islamic laws very strictly and enforced it on their people. It is a very conservative Islamic country and is home to what is considered the holiest city in Islam – Mecca. Alcohol consumption, importation, brewing and selling is completely banned in Saudi Arabia.
Is liquor available in Saudi Arabia airport?
No alcohol is sold in stores, bars, or restaurants. Consuming or possessing alcohol can lead to serious penalties, including fines, deportation, or even jail time. Even transiting through Saudi airports (without entering the country) means alcohol isn't allowed.
What is illegal in Saudi Arabia for tourists?
It is illegal to bring drugs (including marijuana), drug paraphernalia, or alcohol into Saudi Arabia. Importing gambling-related items, weapons, or pork is prohibited. Bringing materials that could be considered obscene or suggestive into Saudi Arabia is also prohibited. Penalties are severe by U.S. standards.
Does Saudi Arabia allow foreigners to buy alcohol?
Quick Summary. Saudi Arabia is discreetly allowing non-Muslim residents with premium status to purchase alcohol in Riyadh, a shift for the Islamic kingdom. This move is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's broader modernization efforts to diversify the economy and attract tourism and expatriates.
Can you wear shorts in Saudi Arabia?
For example, men should avoid wearing shorts above the knees or pajamas in public places. When visiting religious sites such as mosques, all visitors must remove their shoes and wear long pants/skirts; women must cover their hair. Women traveling to Saudi should consider packing a scarf or a pashmina for this purpose.
Can I carry alcohol in checked baggage?
Yes, you can put alcohol in your checked bag, but it must be in unopened retail packaging, limited to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per person if it's between 24% and 70% ABV (48-140 proof), and completely prohibited if over 70% ABV (140 proof). Wine and beer (under 24% ABV) have no quantity limits but must still be securely packed.
Who is allowed to drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Law. Ordinary people who consume alcohol in the kingdom will be fined and jailed, and foreigners will also be deported. The only people allowed to purchase Alcohol or other products from the Diplomatic Quarter are Non-Muslim Diplomats working in the Kingdom.
What is not allowed to bring to Saudi Arabia?
Saudi law prohibits importation of the following products: weapons, alcohol, narcotics, pork and pork products, pornographic materials, distillery equipment, retreaded or used tires, used clothing and certain sculptures.
Can you kiss in public in Riyadh?
As a religious Muslim country, experts warn that overt displays of affection should be done in private. Kissing in public goes against modesty norms and may offend or cause discomfort to local people. It is also illegal to engage in adulterous behavior.
Why was Coca-Cola banned in Saudi Arabia?
Back in the 1960s Arab governments imposed a boycott on Coca-Cola after the firm said it would open a bottling factory in Israel.
Can Muslims drink champagne?
According to Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W), if a substance intoxicates in a large amount, it is forbidden even in a small amount. Hence, most observant Muslims abstain from drinking alcohol at all costs.
Do rich people drink alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is now selling alcohol but only to rich non-Muslim foreign residents. After being banned for more than 70 years, premium residents or people earning $13, 300 or more each month can now buy alcohol.
Can I carry alcohol in Saudi Airlines International?
SAUDIA does not serve or permit passengers to carry or drink alcoholic beverages on its flights. To avoid interruption to the aircraft's communication systems SAUDIA strictly prohibits the use of cellular telephones on board. Please switch off any other electronic devices during take-off and landing.