Saudi Arabia to Open Two New Wineries by 2026

Saudi Arabia is set to open two new wineries, marking another step in the kingdom’s ongoing socio-economic reforms, according to reports. The wineries are expected to be inaugurated by 2026.

One of the wineries will be established in the eastern province of Dhahran within a specific Aramco-owned compound, exclusively for non-Muslim foreign employees. The second winery will be located in Jeddah and reserved for non-Muslim diplomats. “Both wineries are expected to open in 2026, but no official date has been announced.”

The move comes after last year’s historic opening of a liquor store in Riyadh’s diplomatic area, the first in 73 years. Access to that store has since been extended to non-Muslim holders of Saudi premium residency. Previously, alcohol in Saudi Arabia was obtainable only through diplomatic mail, the black market, or homemade preparations.

The Saudi government’s media office and Aramco have declined to comment on the plan. The new wineries reflect a gradual easing of alcohol restrictions in the kingdom, similar to trends in other Gulf countries, and highlight the government’s commitment to socio-economic modernization while catering to non-Muslim residents and diplomats.