Saudi Arabia's New Liquor Law: Rich Foreigners Can Buy Booze, But Not the Rest

In a surprising move, Saudi Arabia has relaxed its rules on the sale of alcohol, allowing non-Muslim foreign residents with high incomes to purchase liquor from the country's only liquor outlet in Riyadh. However, a proof of income, specifically a salary certificate, is required to make a purchase. The store, which initially catered to foreign diplomats, has now extended its services to non-Muslim residents who hold premium residency status, also known as the Saudi Green Card. This exclusive status is granted to skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who meet certain requirements, including a medical examination, a clean criminal record, and sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their dependents. The decision has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many users expressing their outrage and mocking the service. Some have criticized the move as hypocritical, pointing out that the rules have been relaxed only for the rich and powerful, while the poor are still denied access to alcohol. According to reports, the salary requirement is set at 50,000 riyals per month, equivalent to approximately ₹11 lakhs. This move is seen as a way to prevent poor foreign workers from accessing liquor, while allowing wealthy tourists to indulge in their preferred beverages. The Saudi Premium Residency program was launched in 2019 to attract skilled professionals and investors to the country. The program aims to provide a more favorable environment for foreign residents, but critics argue that it creates a two-tier system, where the rich are treated differently from the poor. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Saudi Arabia's new liquor law has sparked a controversy that is unlikely to die down anytime soon.