Kuala Lumpur: Malaysian pilgrims performing Umrah were surprised after spotting alcohol-free Guinness products on store shelves in Saudi Arabia’s holy cities, sparking discussion online.
The reactions followed a viral Threads post, showing a can of Guinness Draught 0.0 in Medina, with users sharing similar sightings of non-alcoholic beverages and other products in supermarkets near Mecca.
The product contains 0% alcohol and is permitted under local regulations, although its branding has raised questions among some Muslim consumers due to its association with alcoholic drinks.
The viral posts also featured other items such as food products and retail brands, prompting broader conversations about cultural expectations and differences encountered by pilgrims.
The images and comments drew mixed reactions, with some expressing surprise while others noted the growing availability of non-alcoholic alternatives in the region.