The Ruling on showing Hospitality to Non-Muslims by offering them Alcoholic Drinks

Question

Is it permissible for a Muslim to show hospitality to the friendly non-Muslims by offering them food and drink which the Islamic religion has prohibited?

Answer

Islam is the religion of tolerance, ease and flexibility, and at the same time, it is the religion of justice. Hospitality is a part of Islamic good manners, but if the guest is a disbeliever, then the ruling differs according to the different intention of the host and the different types of hospitality he offers him. If his intention is legitimate, based upon his desire to create harmony between himself and the disbeliever, so that he may call him to Islam and save him from Kufr and misguidance, then his intention is honorable.

One of the fixed rules of the Islamic Law is that means are governed by aims; thus, if the aim is obligatory, the means is also obligatory; whereas, if the aim is forbidden, the means is also forbidden. And if he does not have a legitimate intention in offering hospitality and his failing to do so will not result in harm, then it is permissible.

However, offering hospitality in the form of food and drinks which Allah, the Almighty, the Majestic has forbidden is not permissible, for hospitality in this case is a form of disobedience to Allah, obedience to them, and placing their right over the Right of Allah. The Muslims' obligation is to adhere to his religion. Doing so in non-Muslim's countries will show a powerful image and he will be calling people to Islam by his words and deeds.

The Permanent Committee for Legal Rulings – Saudi Arabia

Reference: Fatawa Islamiyah Volume 1 Page 233