Saudi Arabia tipped to ease alcohol ban as it uncorks tourism potential

The introduction of entertainment hubs like Red Sea Global and the Qiddiya project near Riyadh “may also incorporate more liberal amenities to cater to international visitors while balancing religious sensitivities”, said Saudi political commentator Salman al-Ansari.

“Any such changes will likely be carefully managed to ensure they align with Saudi societal values,” he told This Week in Asia.

Previously a closed society that only allowed foreign Muslim pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina to enter, Saudi Arabia began offering tourist visas in 2019 and the nationals of 63 countries are now eligible to…