Sources say that Saudi Arabia will open its first liquor store in 72 years. A lot of people don’t know if this is just a small change or if it will totally change things for Saudi Arabia.
Plans are being made for the store, and a paper has been passed around that details how closely officials and leaders will be watching the store and how it works. The store will be in the capital’s Diplomatic Quarter, and only officials who are not Muslim will be able to get in. There will be no changes for the other 30 million people in Saudi Arabia.
There have been some limits that should have been expected since their first liquor store opened in 72 years. People will have to register with an app in order to enter the store, and they will be asked to keep their phones in a “mobile pouch” while they look or buy alcohol, among other things.
How different people feel about this choice depends on who you ask. Some people think that since the country is growing and spreading, changes are to be expected. Others are against it or don’t care either way. It’s not a big surprise that these things were added since the country is growing in terms of business and fame.
But, on the other hand, some people are confused about the addition of the liquor shop. “It’s not that I have some kind of judgment against people who drink,” one Saudi guy said. Not at all, not at all. That being said, having something out there changes the society and the community.
After him, another man from Saudi Arabia said, “It’s scary that they let these things into the country.” If someone wants to try booze, they can get there in an hour by plane.
The Center for International Communication of the government said the policy’s goal was “to stop the illegal trade of alcohol goods and products sent by diplomatic missions.” In Saudi Arabia, there are often hidden places to buy booze, and some whiskey bottles can fetch hundreds of dollars.
Some people are more worried about how it would affect restaurants and companies that make popular alcohol-free spritz drinks in Saudi Arabia. Others are more worried about how the country will be seen if it becomes legal to buy alcohol there.
It was made public by the brand manager of a business that makes alcohol-free spritzes: “There has always been talk about having the real alcohol here…” But to be honest, I can’t say anything because it’s with the government and we don’t know yet.
People in Saudi Arabia don’t understand the decision, but they expect more changes as the country grows.
