The first alcohol shop is expected to be inaugurated in the heart of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh soon. The development comes after the ‘necessary’ amendments were made to the rules. According to the reports, this alcohol store will only be a spot for the touring diplomats and delegates.
Saudi Arabia and alcohol?
The agenda behind bringing liquor to Saudi Arabia is part of a strategic plan to turn the country into a major business hub for the world. It must be noted that Prince Muhammad bin Salman is the mastermind behind it who wants to see Saudi Arabia as a second prominent destination for business and tourism after UAE.
As per the vision and mission of the Saudi Government, this action is taken to expand the economic growth of the state and minimize the dependency on the dollar trade. International media reports also reveal that the Saudi government is about to make new changes in the policy of importing alcohol which might lead to the requirement for another store.
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Shaikh Muhammad bin Salman aims to modernize society and also to reduce international norms of being known as a state whose economy only depends on the trade of oil. However, the decision has upset the Muslim community globally stating, “Saudi Arabia has always been recognized as a home to the holiest sites in Islam, how can they bring a (Haram) thing into it”.
Following the new addition: Visitors under the age of 21 will not be authorized to enter the store or even take pictures of the place. Using cell phones in the store is strictly prohibited. Moreover, only registered individuals will be allowed to purchase alcohol and that too according to the allocated monthly quota.
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