Saudi Arabia has officially denied reports claiming it will allow alcohol sales at 600 sites nationwide in preparation for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The kingdom firmly maintains its 73-year ban on alcohol, rejecting rumors that it plans to relax restrictions to accommodate international visitors.
No Change to Saudi Arabia’s Alcohol Ban
Last week, a wine-focused blog sparked controversy by suggesting Saudi authorities might permit the controlled sale of wine, beer, and cider with less than 20% alcohol by volume. According to the report, alcohol sales would remain banned in public areas, homes, shops, and fan zones during the World Cup. The article claimed the goal was to “welcome the world without losing cultural identity,” but it failed to cite any official sources.
Saudi officials quickly responded, dismissing these claims as false. Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, speaking on LBC radio, stressed that Saudi Arabia is a “dry country” with strict cultural values. He said the kingdom welcomes visitors but will not compromise its traditions. “We don’t want to change our culture for someone else,” Prince Khalid explained.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Reforms and Alcohol Policy
Despite Saudi Arabia’s firm stance on alcohol, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman continues to push ambitious reforms aimed at expanding tourism and business opportunities. Last year, Riyadh opened the kingdom’s first alcohol store, catering exclusively to non-Muslim diplomats. Before this, alcohol was only accessible via diplomatic mail or the black market.
While these reforms signal Saudi Arabia’s willingness to open its doors to the world, officials insist that alcohol sales will not be part of the 2034 World Cup experience.
Impact on International Hospitality and Tourism Plans
The rumors about alcohol sales have already influenced global hotel chains, prompting them to revise their blueprints to include potential alcohol zones by 2026. However, these plans remain speculative as the government continues to uphold the ban.
Saudi Arabia’s approach contrasts with Qatar’s during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where limited alcohol sales took place at select hotels, but not in stadiums or fan zones. Saudi Arabia’s stricter policy reflects its status as the spiritual home of Islam, where alcohol consumption remains socially and religiously unacceptable.
The Official Stance on Alcohol for the 2034 FIFA World Cup
The Saudi ambassador to the UK has confirmed that alcohol will remain banned during the 2034 World Cup. This declaration disappointed some football fans hoping for more relaxed rules.
Overall, Saudi Arabia aims to balance welcoming international visitors and protecting its cultural and religious identity. The kingdom’s decision to maintain the alcohol ban during the World Cup aligns with this goal and underscores its cautious approach to modernization.
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