Exploring Saudi Arabia's potential relaxation of alcohol ban with the opening of a liquor store, aiming to boost tourism. Young Saudis share views on cultural shifts and generational divide in a country trying to modernize its image.
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Quick takeaways
Opening of first liquor store in over 70 years may indicate broader changes tied to Vision 2030.
Relaxation of alcohol laws in Saudi Arabia could have significant implications for business and tourism sectors.
Deep dives
Alcohol Opening in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has opened its first liquor store in over 70 years, offering alcohol to non-Muslim experts and diplomats under strict conditions. This small initiative may indicate broader changes tied to Vision 2030, aiming to attract more visitors and expand the population. However, the current opening is limited, highlighting a slow and controlled approach to societal changes around alcohol availability.
Impact on Business and Tourism
The relaxation of alcohol laws in Saudi Arabia could have significant implications for the business and tourism sectors. While the initial focus is on diplomats and controlled enclaves, there are prospects for broader availability, potentially in special free zones or future projects like the Red Sea developments. This shift aligns with the Vision 2030 goal of transforming Saudi Arabia into a hub for leisure and tourism, attracting visitors and investments.
Generational Divide on Alcohol Policies
The podcast highlights a generational gap in attitudes towards alcohol policy changes in Saudi Arabia. Younger individuals express excitement about limited alcohol availability, believing it could enhance tourism and social experiences. In contrast, older generations are more conservative and hesitant about such shifts, emphasizing traditional beliefs and religious considerations. This divide underscores evolving societal dynamics in response to changing regulations and cultural norms.
An alcohol shop for diplomats has opened in Saudi Arabia. It’s a significant move in a country that has banned alcohol for over 70 years.
Some believe in order to transform the tourism economy it is a sign of things to come. In the meantime, Riyadh has become known for making some of the best non-alcohol cocktails in the world.
Is this a small policy change, or does it signal a wider relaxation of the rules? We hear from young Saudis about the generational divide in a country trying to change its image.
(Picture: A bartender prepares a non-alcoholic cocktail in a bar in Riyadh. Credit: Getty Images)
Presented and produced by Rick Kelsey
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