Can you drink alcohol in 5 star hotels in Saudi Arabia?
Asked by: Greyson Schinner | Last update: March 2, 2026Score: 4.7/5 (74 votes)
Yes, starting in 2026, you will likely be able to drink wine, beer, and cider in some licensed five-star hotels and luxury resorts in Saudi Arabia as part of the Vision 2030 plan to boost tourism, though it's restricted to non-Muslim tourists in specific, government-approved venues and strong spirits remain banned. This controlled access allows for wine and beer (under 20% ABV) in designated tourist zones, luxury hotels, and resorts, aligning with efforts to attract international visitors for events like Expo 2030.
Will Saudi Arabia allow alcohol for tourists?
Saudi Arabia is now gradually allowing tightly controlled alcohol sales to non-Muslim diplomats and higher-earning expatriates. The nation plans to extend limited access to alcohol to select tourist zones by 2026.
What are the hotel rules in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is allowing foreign men and women to rent hotel rooms together without proving they are related, after the conservative Muslim kingdom launched a new tourist visa regime to attract holidaymakers.
Can I stay with my girlfriend in a hotel in Riyadh?
Yes, as a foreign tourist, you can stay with your girlfriend in a hotel in Riyadh; Saudi Arabia changed its rules in 2019 to allow unmarried foreign couples to share hotel rooms without needing to prove they are married, though Saudi nationals still need to show family ID. The key is that you are a foreign tourist, so you'll typically only need your passport and ID, but it's always wise to be respectful of local customs.
Do hotels in Saudi Arabia serve alcohol?
Is the consumption of alcohol allowed in Saudi Arabia? No, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia due to its adherence to Islamic law. Are there any exceptions for non-Muslims or tourists? No, there are no exceptions, and the ban applies to all residents and visitors.
Can You Drink Alcohol In Saudi Arabia Hotels? - Resort 2 Travel
Can female tourists wear shorts in Saudi Arabia?
As a tourist, you are not expected to wear the same attire as locals, or to cover up to the same extent, but it's highly recommended that you dress modestly. Specifically, loose-fitted clothing that covers the shoulders, cleavage and legs. “We do prioritize modesty,” says a Saudi woman from Khobar.
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 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.
Can I wear jeans in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can wear jeans in Saudi Arabia, but they should be loose-fitting and paired with modest tops that cover shoulders, chest, and knees, as a sign of respect for local culture, with tighter styles drawing more attention, especially for women where looser fits are preferred. While the abaya isn't mandatory for tourists anymore, dressing conservatively in loose clothing that covers elbows and ankles is recommended for both men and women in public spaces, avoiding overly tight or revealing attire.
What not to do in Saudi Arabia as a tourist?
What should I avoid doing in public in Saudi Arabia? Public displays of affection, such as kissing or holding hands, are not acceptable in Saudi Arabia. It is also best to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours during Ramadan.
What is the 20 hour hotel rule in Saudi Arabia?
What exactly is the 20-hour stay rule ? Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism has made it clear: when you book a hotel room, your check-in and check-out times are fixed as per your reservation. The rule ensures you get at least 20 hours in your room from the moment you check in until you must check out.
Did Saudi lift the alcohol ban?
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.
What is the penalty for drinking alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Drinking alcohol in Saudi Arabia is a serious crime punishable by up to 500 lashes. The number of lashes is entirely discretionary while the social status of an individual determines whether the lashes ought to be on the back or the feet.
Where do expats get alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia has begun widening access to alcohol, allowing non-Muslim holders of special residency permits to buy alcoholic beverages from a shop in Riyadh that was previously restricted to foreign diplomats, according to a report by the US outlet Semafor.
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.
Can you hold hands in Saudi Arabia?
Women should wear an Abaya in public, but headscarves are not compulsory any longer. You should refrain from holding hands and public displays of affection. This is also applicable in the UAE and the GCC. Gambling is banned in KSA as well as in the UAE.
Which hotels serve alcohol in Saudi Arabia?
Top Saudi Arabia Hotels with Bar
- Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche. 5 out of 5. ...
- JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh. ...
- Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah. ...
- Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah. ...
- Holiday Inn Jeddah Gateway by IHG. ...
- Novotel Dammam Business Park. ...
- Four Points by Sheraton Riyadh Khaldia. ...
- Park Hyatt Jeddah - Marina, Club and Spa.
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.
Is alcohol allowed for tourists in Saudi Arabia?
Do not bring alcohol into Saudi Arabia or arrive under the influence of alcohol. It is illegal to drink alcohol or be drunk in public.
Can I wear flip flops in Saudi Arabia?
If you are visiting religious places, you will need shoes that are easy to remove but are still comfortable and supportive. Strappy sandals, court shoes and heels might be appropriate for ladies attending weddings, formal gatherings or going on shopping sprees, and flip-flops are always handy.
Can I wear a cross in Saudi Arabia?
No, you generally cannot wear a cross or display any non-Islamic religious symbols publicly in Saudi Arabia, as it's considered a punishable offense under strict Islamic law, risking harassment, arrest, or deportation, though some private religious practice is tolerated within secure compounds or for foreign workers.
Do and don'ts in Saudi Arabia?
In Saudi Arabia, it's a good idea to dress modestly, greet people politely, and respect prayer times. Accept hospitality when offered, and always avoid public displays of affection.