Saudi Arabia to Allow Alcohol in 600 Tourist Zones by 2026 Under Vision 2030 Tourism Overhaul

In a landmark shift aligned with its ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, Saudi Arabia has announced plans to introduce controlled alcohol access in 600 tourist locations by 2026. The move marks a pivotal transformation in the Kingdom’s conservative regulatory landscape as it seeks to attract millions of international tourists and reshape its global image.

A Paradigm Shift in Policy and Culture

For decades, Saudi Arabia has upheld a strict interpretation of Islamic law, including a blanket ban on alcohol across the country. However, in an unprecedented policy development, the Kingdom will now allow the sale and consumption of wine and beer—but only within designated luxury tourism zones. This significant decision reflects a broader objective: boosting tourism while preserving cultural and religious integrity.The policy, confirmed by Saudi tourism authorities, will enable select five-star hotels, licensed resorts, and international tourism projects to offer limited alcohol options to foreign visitors. Spirits will remain prohibited, and access will be tightly regulated.

Where Alcohol Will Be Available

The reform will be implemented in a strictly controlled manner. Alcohol will not be sold in retail outlets or public spaces. Instead, it will only be available for consumption in approved, on-premise locations. The main details include:

• Permitted Zones:

• Five-star international hotels and resortsLicensed tourism villages with global hospitality partnershipsExclusive zones in ongoing mega-tourism projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Global Project

• Restrictions:

• Only wine and beer allowed; no spiritsNo takeaway or off-site salesAlcohol consumption strictly confined to designated venuesPublic, residential, and unlicensed areas will remain dry under current Sharia-based laws

Tied to Vision 2030: A National Strategy for Change

Launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive roadmap to reduce oil dependency and modernize its economy. Tourism is one of its central pillars, with goals that include welcoming 100 million annual visitors and raising tourism’s share of GDP to 10% by 2030.Allowing controlled alcohol consumption is a strategic step to enhance the Kingdom’s competitiveness in the global tourism market—especially when compared to regional tourism hubs like the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, where alcohol is widely available.

Saudi Arabia vs. Gulf Neighbors: Regional Policy Snapshot

CountryAlcohol RegulationTourism OutcomeSaudi ArabiaRestricted to 600 zones by 2026, wine and beer onlyExpanding tourism through regulated hospitalityUAEWidely available in hotels, bars, and licensed outletsMajor global destination for leisure and businessBahrainFreely available in tourist areas and hotelsPopular for short-term tourism in the Gulf regionBy modernizing its policies, Saudi Arabia aims to meet international expectations while distinguishing itself through culturally conscious tourism development.

World Cup 2034: Accelerating Hospitality Standards

Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034 is believed to be a key driver of the alcohol reform timeline. With millions expected to visit for the global sporting event, the Kingdom is taking steps to accommodate international norms in hospitality without compromising its cultural principles.Preparations for the tournament include large-scale infrastructure projects—stadiums, airports, luxury hotels, and transportation networks—all designed to deliver a world-class visitor experience. Allowing alcohol in a limited capacity is part of ensuring that experience aligns with global standards.

Support from the Hospitality Sector

Major international hotel chains and travel brands are actively engaged in discussions with Saudi tourism officials to implement alcohol service protocols that align with the new regulations. Projects where this change is expected to take root include:

• NEOM – A futuristic $500 billion city promoting tech, tourism, and sustainability
• Red Sea Global – A luxury eco-resort development along Saudi’s pristine coastline
• Amaala and AlUla – Cultural tourism centers focused on history, arts, and wellness

Tour operators are already adapting their packages for 2026 and beyond, targeting high-spending international clientele.

Compliance and Cultural Safeguards

While the move represents a substantial policy liberalization, Saudi Arabia continues to emphasize that its Islamic identity remains central. To manage this cultural balance, the alcohol rollout will be governed by:

• Licensing: Only select, vetted venues will be authorized to serve alcohol
• Supply Control: Importation and distribution tightly regulated
• Training: Mandatory hospitality staff education in responsible service
• Zoning Laws: Alcohol permitted only in isolated, clearly marked areas
• Legal Enforcement: Public consumption or possession remains illegal

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has reiterated that Sharia law remains in effect for all non-designated areas.

Complementary Tourism Reforms Already in Motion

The alcohol initiative is one of several reforms reshaping Saudi Arabia’s tourism landscape. Other liberalization measures introduced under Vision 2030 include:

• Electronic visas (eVisas) for visitors from 57 countries
• Hosting international festivals like MDLBEAST Soundstorm
• Archaeological tourism at UNESCO heritage sites such as AlUla and Hegra
• Relaxed social restrictions in tourist hubs, including swimwear fashion shows and mixed-gender events

Together, these initiatives aim to transform Saudi Arabia into a destination that offers world-class experiences while maintaining local authenticity.

Summing Up

Saudi Arabia’s decision to legalize limited alcohol consumption in 600 tourist areas by 2026 is not merely a hospitality tweak—it’s a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s broader effort to modernize and diversify its economy. Aligned with Vision 2030 and fueled by mega-events like the World Cup, the reform is expected to boost the country’s global appeal while maintaining strict adherence to its religious and cultural values.