New booze rule alert: Govt mandates salary slip to show income threshold before buying alcohol

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Saudi Arabia is making a major change to its social policies and is now preparing to allow the sale of alcohol within a limited scope. Under the new system, non-Muslim foreign citizens will be able to purchase alcohol under certain conditions. This decision is being considered an important step towards increasing foreign investment, business environment, and social liberalization in the country.

Who can buy alcohol?

According to sources, non-Muslim foreign nationals living in Saudi Arabia will have to provide proof of income to purchase alcohol. According to the rules, a buyer must have a monthly income of at least 50,000 riyals (approximately $13,300). In Indian currency, this income translates to approximately Rs 1.2 million per month. Providing a salary slip will be mandatory for purchases.

Alcohol will be available from a special shop in Riyadh

A special store located in Riyadh has been given permission to sell alcohol to foreign nationals. The store was originally opened for foreign diplomats, but now it has also been opened to some non-Muslim foreign residents—especially those with premium residency status. Sources said that a formal announcement has not yet been made by the government on this decision. However, due to sensitivity, many officials did not want to be identified publicly.

Why is Saudi Arabia relaxing its alcohol policy?

Experts believe the move is part of a series of social reforms under Vision 2030. The Saudi government is working towards goals such as increasing foreign investment, attracting global companies, promoting tourism and gradually easing social restrictions .

Saudi Arabia has implemented significant reforms over the past few years—allowing women to drive, lifting restrictions on cinemas and concerts, and promoting public entertainment. The easing of alcohol regulations is also seen as part of a broader reform drive.