Saudi Arabia has denied reports that it would lift its long-standing alcohol ban when it hosts the World Cup in 2034.

A Saudi official said on Monday that no alcohol would be sold at the tournament in line with existing law.

Several media outlets cited unnamed government sources as saying that beer and wine could be available at licensed venues, including luxury hotels, five-star resorts, and major tourist developments.

The reports said the move was part of an effort to compete with other Gulf destinations, like Dubai and Bahrain, for tourists and help diversify its economy away from oil.

However, while Saudi Arabia has relaxed some of its religious laws in recent years under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s reform agenda – such as allowing women to drive – alcohol remains taboo.

The country adheres to a strict interpretation of Islamic law called Shariah and makes alcohol illegal for Muslims and non-Muslims living in the kingdom.