Riyadh, May 26 -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is reportedly set to lift its 73-year ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol by 2026 under a strict licensing system.

This significant policy shift forms part of the kingdom's preparations to host major international events, including Riyadh Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034.

Saudi Arabia has maintained a alcohol ban since 1952, prohibiting both citizens and foreign nationals from consuming alcoholic beverages. However, sinceJanuary 2024, a shop inRiyadhhas been granted permission to sell alcohol to non-Muslim diplomats under strict regulations.

According to a report by the Saudi Moments, a new regulatory framework is expected to allow controlled alcohol sales at approximat...