Saudi Arabia Warns of Up to SR5,000 Fine for Selling Tobacco to Under-18s
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has warned that selling or providing tobacco products to individuals under the age of 18 is strictly prohibited, with violators facing fines of up to SR5,000.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the ministry said any violation would constitute a serious breach of regulations and could also result in the closure of the offending shop. Fines would be doubled in cases of repeated violations.
The ministry has instructed tobacco retailers to ask young customers for identification documents whenever there is any doubt about their age.
Under the regulations, establishments selling food products alongside tobacco products, including shisha, must designate separate smoking areas to prevent tobacco smoke from affecting customers in non-smoking sections.
Such designated smoking areas must have adequate ventilation and exhaust systems to ensure proper circulation of fresh air.
The ministry has also directed establishments to install separate air-conditioning ducts for smoking areas, with no connection to other halls or sections of the premises, to prevent smoke from spreading.
The new regulations also prohibit the sale of individual cigarettes, commonly known as loose cigarettes, as well as the distribution of promotional gifts and prizes by tobacco companies.
The ministry has directed businesses to ensure that their employees are fully aware of the applicable regulations and penalties so that violations can be prevented and compliance maintained.
