Saudi Arabia has introduced tougher regulations on food establishments, with fines of up to SAR5,000 for anyone caught smoking in undesignated areas inside eateries. The announcement comes as part of the Kingdom’s broader plan to improve hygiene, safety, and consumer protection standards in the food and beverage sector.
SAR5,000 fine for smoking at restaurants
The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing confirmed that smoking in non-designated areas of food outlets will now attract a fine of SAR5,000. The rule applies across restaurants, cafés, and similar establishments, reflecting ongoing efforts to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and improve public health.
This regulation highlights the government’s focus on raising standards in public spaces, especially in areas linked to dining and hospitality.
Broader penalties for food sector violations
The smoking fine is part of a larger package of penalties aimed at ensuring safety and transparency. Among the violations included are:
- Hygiene breaches by staff: Workers not wearing face masks or failing to cover their heads face fines of SAR1,000 each.
- Delivery staff uniform rule: Food delivery drivers must wear company uniforms or risk a SAR500 penalty.
- Misleading claims on food and drink: Businesses that sell frozen fruit juices while advertising them as freshly prepared can face fines of SAR1,000.
- Unhygienic practices: Staff caught spitting, or touching their nose or mouth while handling food may be fined up to SAR2,000.
These measures aim to protect consumers, prevent unsafe practices, and hold food businesses accountable.
Raising regional standards
This development in Saudi Arabia mirrors a wider regional commitment to tightening health and safety measures. In the UAE, similar rules on smoking zones and food hygiene are already enforced, with a strong emphasis on safeguarding customer wellbeing. For Dubai residents and expatriates who frequently travel to Saudi Arabia for business, religious visits, or leisure, awareness of these rules is particularly relevant.
Now Businesses need to prepare for
Food operators in Saudi Arabia must ensure strict compliance with the regulations or face repeated fines and possible business disruption. Restaurants, cafés, and delivery platforms are expected to implement regular staff training, hygiene checks, and compliance audits to meet the required standards.
For consumers, the updated regulations provide reassurance that their dining experiences are safer and more transparent, both in terms of hygiene and food quality.
Saudi Arabia’s decision to impose a SAR5,000 fine for smoking in undesignated zones at food outlets is part of a clear drive to improve food safety, protect consumer rights, and raise public health standards. The additional fines targeting hygiene and misleading practices reinforce this goal, ensuring a safer and more accountable dining environment across the Kingdom.
For Dubai and UAE residents, especially those who travel frequently to Saudi Arabia, these updates highlight a shared regional focus on enhancing lifestyle quality and consumer trust.
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