Wondering where to buy alcohol in Riyadh? Explore the laws, diplomatic options, and tasty alternatives here! Friendly guide to Saudi Arabia’s alcohol rules for visitors and expats.
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Where to Buy Alcohol in Riyadh: Your Guide to Navigating the Rules
Where to buy alcohol in Riyadh?
It is a question that pops up for many newcomers to Saudi Arabia’s bustling capital—whether you are an expat settling in, a tourist exploring, or just curious about how things work here.
Picture this: you are wandering through Riyadh’s vibrant streets, past the gleaming Kingdom Centre Tower and the fragrant spice stalls of Souq Al-Zal, wondering if there is a spot to grab a beer or a glass of wine.
The answer is not straightforward, but do not worry—I am here to explain it to you with clarity, a dash of warmth, and all the details you need as of April 6, 2025.
Riyadh is a city of contrasts—modern malls meet ancient traditions, and its alcohol laws reflect that unique blend.
Let us explore where you can (and cannot) find alcohol, the rules, and how to enjoy this incredible city without breaking the bank—or the law.
Where to Start: Understanding Saudi Arabia’s Alcohol Ban
First things first: Saudi Arabia follows Islamic law, or Sharia, which forbids alcohol for Muslims.
This is not just a suggestion but a nationwide rule that shapes life for locals and visitors alike.
For most people, buying alcohol in Riyadh is not an option.
The sale and consumption of alcohol are tightly controlled and rooted in a cultural belief that sobriety fosters health, clarity, and community.
Think of it like this: in a city where family gatherings and prayer calls set the rhythm, alcohol does not fit the melody.
For Saudis, it is a point of pride—a way to live and mindfully.
For you, it is a chance to experience something different, even if it means leaving your usual nightcap behind.
Where to Find Legal Alcohol: The Diplomatic Quarter Exception
So, is there anywhere to legally buy alcohol in Riyadh?
Yes, but it is a narrow window.
In early 2024, Saudi Arabia opened its first alcohol store in Riyadh, tucked away in the Diplomatic Quarter—a quiet, tree-lined area where embassies cluster.
This is not your average liquor shop, however.
It is a unique spot reserved for non-Muslim diplomats, and it is the only legal place to purchase alcohol in Riyadh as of 2025.
Here is how it works:
- You need to be a registered non-Muslim diplomat living in Saudi Arabia.
- Download the “Diplo” app—your key to registering and shopping.
- Get a clearance code from the Saudi Foreign Ministry (a bit like a VIP pass).
- Follow a monthly quota system so purchases stay limited and tracked.
Inside, you will find shelves with whiskey, vodka, and wine—familiar names worldwide.
It is a small but significant shift in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to modernize while respecting its roots.
However, if you are not a diplomat, this store might as well be on another planet—it is off-limits to the public, including expats and tourists.
Where to Look if You Are Not a Diplomat: The Legal Limits
For everyone else—expats, visitors, or curious locals—the answer to where to buy alcohol in Riyadh is simple: nowhere legal.
Outside the Diplomatic Quarter, alcohol sales are banned across the kingdom.
Breaking this rule is not a slap on the wrist—it can mean fines, prison, or deportation.
The government takes it seriously, with strict enforcement at borders and within cities.
However, where there is a will, there is often a way, right?
Some turn to the black market, where illegal alcohol in Riyadh circulates at steep prices.
A liter of vodka might cost $500 to $600, while premium whiskey can hit $1,000 or more.
These are not just high prices—they are high stakes.
The quality is a gamble, and getting caught could ruin your stay.
Others try brewing their own at home—think homemade beer or wine—but that is illegal, too, and the risks outweigh the rewards.
Where to Turn Instead: Delicious Non-Alcoholic Options
Riyadh shines here: you do not need alcohol to enjoy a refreshing drink.
The city’s non-alcoholic beverages are a delight, blending local flavors with creative twists.
Hotels like the Ritz-Carlton or Four Seasons whip up mocktails in Riyadh that rival any cocktail—think virgin mojitos with fresh mint or sparkling pomegranate spritzers.
At a cafe in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside Riyadh, you might sip jallab—a sweet mix of dates, molasses, and rose water—while soaking in history.
Do you love the vibe of a cold beer?
Supermarkets stock non-alcoholic versions like Barbican or Moussy, crisp and malty without the buzz.
Moreover, do not skip Arabic coffee—served in tiny cups with a cardamom kick- a ritual that warms the soul.
Pair it with dates or baklava and have a pure Saudi treat.
Where to Enjoy Riyadh: Tips for Visitors and Expats
Navigating alcohol regulations in Riyadh does not have to be stressful.
Here is how to make it easy:
- Skip the smuggling: Do not try bringing alcohol in—customs agents are pros at spotting it, and the penalties are not worth it.
- Lean into the local scene: Head to places like Al Rajhi Grand Mosque or the National Museum, then unwind at a rooftop lounge with a mocktail.
- Chat with locals: Saudis love sharing their culture—ask about their favorite drinks or spots, and you will unlock hidden gems.
Where Things Might Head: A Peek at the Future
Could alcohol laws in Riyadh loosen up?
Vision 2030 is shaking things up—think mega projects like NEOM and tourist-friendly reforms.
Some whisper about alcohol in future resort zones, but as of 2025, the Diplomatic Quarter store is the only legal toehold.
Change is slow, and for now, Riyadh thrives without it.
Where to Find the Magic: Embracing Riyadh’s Charm
So, where can you buy alcohol in Riyadh? Unless you are a diplomat with the proper credentials, the answer’s nowhere legal.
However, here is the secret: you do not need it.
Riyadh’s magic lies in its markets, food, and people.
Swap the search for a bar with a sunset drive to the Edge of the World, a stunning cliff just outside the city.
Sip a cool drink, watch the desert glow, and let Riyadh surprise you.
What is your go-to way to relax in a new place? Drop a comment—I would love to hear your story!
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