Saudi Arabia will reportedly lift its ban on alcohol at 600 sites next year as the country aims to win over tourists ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2034.
In a shock U-turn, the ultra-conservative nation will allow the sale of wine, beer and cider at licensed venues including luxury hotels, five-star resorts and tourist developments.
But booze will remain banned in public, homes, shops, and fan zones, with spirits off the menu altogether under the Kingdom's strict rules.
The plans form part of the Gulf State's Vision 2030, an initiative to attract tourists and investment in the lead up to hosting major international events, including the World Cup and Expo 2030.
Officials hope controlled alcohol sales in glamorous areas like Neom, Sindalah Island and the Red Sea Project will help the country compete with Gulf rivals such as the UAE and Bahrain where boozing is already legal in tourist zones.
