Saudi authorities have firmly rejected recent speculation about lifting the country’s decades-old alcohol ban in connection with the 2034 FIFA World Cup. A senior official labelled the reports as entirely false and misleading, insisting the topic has never been under discussion.
The statement came in response to international reports suggesting Saudi Arabia might ease restrictions to accommodate the global football event. Officials stressed that the sale and consumption of alcohol remain strictly forbidden, especially in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, where such actions are deemed unacceptable under any circumstances.
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The rumour reportedly originated from a little-known wine blog and was later picked up by some foreign media outlets. Once the story gained attention online, it triggered a swift backlash on Saudi social media. Many users criticised the claim, viewing it as an attempt to distort the kingdom’s religious and cultural values.
Saudi Arabia, under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has introduced several reforms in recent years, including allowing women to drive, easing gender-related restrictions, and curbing the powers of the religious police. However, officials made it clear that these changes do not extend to alcohol laws.
They reiterated that the ban on alcohol is firmly in place and remains a criminal offense under Saudi law. The government emphasized that the country’s policies are rooted in its cultural and religious identity and that no changes are planned regarding the prohibition of alcohol.