Alcohol can be banned on the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, in response to the nation’s ambassador to the UK, Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud.
In an interview with LBC, Prince Khalid confirmed that alcohol wouldn’t be bought wherever through the match, together with motels. He defined that Saudi Arabia doesn’t allow alcohol at current and that followers can have enjoyable with out it.
He acknowledged:
Loads of enjoyable could be had with out alcohol – it’s not 100% obligatory. If you wish to drink after you permit, you’re welcome to, however in the mean time we don’t have alcohol.
When requested if alcohol can be out there in motels, because it was through the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, he added:
No, there isn’t any alcohol in any respect. Somewhat like our climate, it’s a dry nation.
He additionally emphasised that Saudi Arabia respects its tradition and doesn’t need to change it for others.
Everybody has their very own tradition. We’re joyful to accommodate individuals throughout the boundaries of our tradition.
What else is just not allowed?
The query of alcohol availability was additionally raised earlier than the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the place the sale of alcohol was closely regulated. Initially, alcohol was to be bought in stadiums, however this resolution was reversed simply days earlier than the match.
Prince Khalid additionally reassured that Saudi Arabia would welcome all guests regardless of its conservative legal guidelines, together with its stance on same-sex relations and transgender recognition, and emphasised that the World Cup is a world occasion, not a Saudi one.
Saudi Arabia has confronted criticism over its human rights report, with Amnesty Worldwide warning that internet hosting the World Cup there may result in widespread rights violations.