Pakistani Celebrities react to Saudi Arabia’s Alcohol Store

Reports of Saudi Arabia opening its first alcohol store in more than 70 years have sparked criticism from Muslims all around the world.

The move, however, is still awaiting official confirmation from the Saudi government.

Many Pakistani celebrities have commented on it and their reactions have been quite strong.

Pakistani actor Ahmad Ali Butt took to his Instagram story, expressing concern with a foreboding message that read:

“The end is near.”

Bilal Qureshi, who spent his formative years in Saudi Arabia, conveyed his disbelief. He stated that he could never have imagined something like this to happen.

“I was born and raised in Saudi Arabia. I could never imagine it was gonna happen there.”

Mishi Khan raised questions about the apparent lack of public outcry against issues like alcohol and casinos in Saudi Arabia.

She asked: “Why aren’t people speaking against the casinos, dress-up and alcohol shops in Saudia?”

These expressions from Pakistani celebrities reflect the wider sentiment within the Muslim community.

Social media platforms are witnessing a surge in public outrage, disappointment, and calls for accountability.

Many Muslims perceive the reported opening of the alcohol store as a betrayal of cultural principles. They are deeming it as a symbol of moral decay.

Critics argue that this move contradicts Saudi Arabia’s commitment to upholding Islamic law.

They also accused the Saudi leadership of compromising fundamental values to align with Western interests.

Not only celebrities, but many Pakistanis in general have raised their voice against the opening of the store.

One X user commented: “Even Pakistan is better than Saudi Arabia at least we are not legalising haram.”

Another said: “First casinos and now this, truly unbelievable.”

One expressed:

“Indeed the end is near, the most Holy country has opened a Liquor store.”

This controversy highlights the emotions and concerns about the potential impact on Saudi Arabia’s Islamic identity.

It is the first alcohol store in Saudi Arabia in 72 years.

The law on alcohol prohibition was formed after one of King Abdulaziz’s sons drunkenly shot a British diplomat.

The Saudi government is currently facing the challenge of maintaining a balance between domestic expectations and international influences.

Saudi officials claim that the inauguration of the store would counter “the illicit trade of alcohol”.

The community is closely observing the developments, with public sentiment, mirrored by the reactions of Pakistani celebrities.