Saudi Arabia Eases Alcohol Rules For Non Muslims With Rs 12 Lakh Monthly Salary: ‘No Beer For Poor Is Hilarious’

Last Updated:December 09, 2025, 16:14 IST

Saudi Arabia, which follows Islamic teachings in its laws, has banned alcohol for the public, but certain residents can now purchase it only if they earn more than Rs 12 lakh.

Saudi Arabia banned alcohol after a tragic incident in the 1950s. (Pexels/Representative Image)

Saudi Arabia has taken another big step toward easing rules by allowing some non Muslim foreign residents to buy alcohol under strict conditions. The country, which follows Islamic teachings in its laws, has banned alcohol for the public. But now, certain residents will be able to purchase only if they earn more than 50,000 riyals a month (approximately Rs 12 Lakh). To use this option, people must show a salary certificate before entering the country’s first and only liquor store in Riyadh.

The shop opened last year for foreign diplomats, but now non Muslims with premium residency will also be able to purchase alcohol legally. Many social media users were not happy about this update. They made fun of the rule, saying it is meant only for people with high incomes. At the same time, some users pointed out that the government might be trying to attract skilled workers and visitors, while still keeping tight rules to manage things.

Saudi Arabia Allows Non Muslim Foreign Residents To Buy Alcohol

According to The New York Times report, Saudi Arabia has not officially announced any change in its alcohol rules. But people who want to buy alcohol can notice certain signs in the store meant for diplomats, “VAT EXEMPT GOODS FOR DIPLOMATS ONLY," which means that the items are tax-free. One shopper explained that buyers are given a fixed limit each month and this limit is connected to their national ID. They also shared that the special app used to enter the store was made by the country’s tax and customs department.

Internet Feels The Rule Favours Wealthy Residents And Shuts Out Others

Reacting to the post, a user wrote, “So it’s only bad for anyone making under 13K, Gotcha."

Another shared, “So much for ‘principles.’ After enforcing strict rules for decades on ordinary people, the rules now change when it suits power and money. Same country, new hypocrisy, different standards for the rich and connected while the poor are told to stay silent and obedient."

“Proof of income for a bottle of wine is CRAZY behaviour," a comment read.

An individual stated, “This is a significant shift in policy. It’s all about attracting talent and tourists while still maintaining some control."

Another jokingly mentioned, “Ronaldo can now drink his Champagne without having to smuggle it from Europe."

One more added, “Saudi’s changing fast. This would’ve been unthinkable a few years ago. Wild how quickly the Kingdom is reshaping its rules. New era incoming. From zero alcohol to controlled access, that’s a major shift for the Kingdom."

Reason Behind The Alcohol Ban In Saudi Arabia

According to an old Time report, Saudi Arabia banned alcohol after a tragic incident in the 1950s. The king, Abdul Aziz Ibn Saud’s child, got into a heated argument with British Vice Consul Cyril Ousman while drinking and the situation turned tragic.

After drinking, the Ibn Saud’s son began acting badly toward a female guest of the Vice Consul. Ousman took him out of the room, which made the prince furious. The next day, still angry, he came back and demanded the woman. When Ousman tried to stop him again, the prince pulled out a gun and started firing. In the shooting, Ousman was killed and his wife was hurt.

News viral Saudi Arabia Eases Alcohol Rules For Non Muslims With Rs 12 Lakh Monthly Salary: ‘No Beer For Poor Is Hilarious’

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