Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations to improve public health and create a safer commercial environment across the Kingdom. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has approved measures banning tobacco shops within 500 meters of mosques and schools. This decision is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate tobacco sales and ensure that the surrounding areas remain safe and free from the influences of smoking products.
The new regulations cover all stores selling tobacco products, including cigarettes, shisha, and e-cigarettes.
To operate, tobacco shops must meet certain conditions, including holding a valid commercial registration and obtaining approval from Civil Defense.
As part of the effort to minimize health risks, the regulations specify several key points for tobacco shops. These include no logos or promotional materials on external signs, limited to displaying only the store name. Public sidewalk use outside the shop is also prohibited, and stores must install surveillance cameras both inside and outside their premises.
Tobacco stores must also adhere to guidelines such as no mixing or repackaging of tobacco products, verifying the age of buyers, and displaying warning signs about smoking risks. Additionally, stores are prohibited from selling single cigarettes or offering free samples.
If you’re interested in other recent regulatory changes, be sure to check out the new rules for small grocery stores in Saudi Arabia that now can’t sell certain products. You may also find it useful to learn about the new food labeling regulations in the Kingdom that took effect on July 1.
Stay tuned for more updates on other important developments in KSA.
