Saudi Arabia Denies Lifting 73-Year Alcohol Ban Ahead 2034 World Cup

Saudi Arabia has officially denied recent reports suggesting it plans to lift its 73-year ban on alcohol, despite rumors that the kingdom might allow controlled alcohol sales ahead of hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup. These rumors originated from a wine blog and were subsequently amplified by some international media, but Saudi officials emphasized that the ban remains firmly in place in accordance with Islamic law and cultural traditions. While Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has spearheaded numerous reforms to diversify the economy and open up the country to tourism—including allowing women to drive and reducing public gender segregation—the prohibition on alcohol remains unchanged, with only a licensed store for non-Muslim diplomats operating in Riyadh. The kingdom continues to enforce strict penalties on alcohol consumption, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation. Despite the push for economic and social reforms, Saudi Arabia is committed to maintaining its religious values and legal codes as it prepares for major global events. The government’s rejection of the alcohol ban lift claims has sparked significant online debate within the conservative nation but clarifies that any such policy change is not part of the current reform agenda.