Users on social media claim that Saudi Arabia has started allowing the sale of alcohol publicly for the first time, under which the first liquor shop is being opened in the capital Riyadh. Originally, alcohol is completely banned in Saudi Arabia.

Taking to X(Twitter), a user named GloBreaking News wrote: “Saudi Arabia is set to open its first alcohol store in the country’s capital Riyadh”

In addition to that, other users also made similar claims on X(Twitter).

Fact-Check

The DFRAC team searched some keywords on Google to investigate the above viral claim. We found numerous media reports during this process.

According to a media report by Aajtak from Jan 25, 2024, Liquor stores will open for non-Muslim diplomats in Riyadh, but there will be a monthly quota of alcohol. Before purchasing liquor, you will have to register through the mobile app. Liquor can be purchased only after getting clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Another media report from Arab News dated Jan 21, 2024, mentioned: “This amendment will be introduced to allow and ensure that all diplomats of non-Muslim embassies have access to these special products and spirits within a specified quota and via a regulated process that prohibits illegal exchange activities, the source added.”

Conclusion

It is clear from DFRAC’s Fact-Check that the liquor store is opening only for Non-Muslim diplomats.

Hence, the claim of social media users is misleading.