Is Saudi Arabia Lifting 73-Year-Old Alcohol Ban Ahead Of 2034 World Cup? Here's What We Know

Last Updated:May 27, 2025, 16:37 IST

Saudi-based Arab News quoted informed sources who rubbished the claims, saying they lacked any official confirmation from relevant authorities

Saudi Arabia has maintained an alcohol ban since 1952, prohibiting both citizens and foreign nationals from consuming alcoholic beverages. However, since January 2024, a shop in Riyadh has been granted permission to sell alcohol to non-Muslim diplomats under strict regulations. Representational image

Saudi Arabia officials have denied media reports claiming the kingdom plans to lift its 73-year ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol by 2026 in view of hosting the football World Cup tournament in 2034. The report appeared in several international media outlets last week, triggering controversy in the kingdom.

However, Saudi-based Arab News quoted informed sources who rubbished the claims, saying they lacked any official confirmation from relevant authorities and “do not reflect existing policies or regulations in Saudi Arabia".

“Under its ambitious vision to develop the tourism sector, Saudi Arabia remains committed to offering a unique and culturally immersive experience," a source told Arab News.

Saudi Arabia has maintained an alcohol ban since 1952, prohibiting both citizens and foreign nationals from consuming alcoholic beverages. However, since January 2024, a shop in Riyadh has been granted permission to sell alcohol to non-Muslim diplomats under strict regulations.

In February, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, confirmed that alcohol will not be permitted at the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

The report of the ban being lifted, which came as Saudi Arabia is witnessing a series of reforms under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, triggered a controversy in the conservative country, which is the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques—Islam’s most revered places in Mecca and Medina.

Saudi Arabia has also undertaken several reforms in recent years in its bid to reduce its dependence on oil revenues through Vision 2030. After Mohammed bin Salman came to power, he also lifted the prohibition on women driving and opened cinemas in the country.

(With agency inputs)

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