Abu Dhabi Registration Authority issued 61 warnings and closed two shops after violations related to illegal tobacco sales near schools/ Image: X
Abu Dhabi’s continued efforts to regulate tobacco and electronic cigarette sales have intensified with the closure of two commercial establishments and the issuance of numerous warnings and violations. These measures reflect the Emirate’s commitment to public health, especially near educational institutions, as part of an ongoing initiative to ensure strict compliance with federal and local regulations governing tobacco sales.
A focus on public health and consumer protection
In an effort to safeguard the community, especially young people, the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA) has ramped up its inspections, with a particular focus on businesses operating near schools and educational institutions. During the first ten months of 2025, ADRA conducted 1,661 field visits and 21 inspection campaigns targeting tobacco and e-cigarette vendors. These efforts are part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to maintain a transparent, fair, and secure business environment. The crackdown led to the closure of two commercial shops that failed to comply with federal laws and Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) regulations. In addition, ADRA issued 61 warnings and 18 violations for non-compliance. Violations included the illegal sale of tobacco products to minors, improper display of tobacco items at checkout points, and home delivery of tobacco goods—practices that breach the stringent regulations set forth in the UAE’s tobacco control laws.
Rigorous inspection campaigns and business compliance
ADRA’s fieldwork this year highlights its dedication to a safe and fair business environment. The inspections conducted by the agency show a strong commitment to not only enforcing legal measures but also educating the public and business owners about compliance. While the violations recorded were significant, they were limited when compared to the total number of businesses and inspections conducted.In line with these efforts, ADRA aims to promote the importance of consumer rights and the protection of intellectual property and trademarks. These inspections, along with ADRA’s enforcement actions, underscore the UAE’s prioritisation of public health, particularly in vulnerable areas such as school zones. The authority’s Director General, Mohammed Munif Al Mansouri, underscored the effectiveness of these campaigns in raising awareness within the business sector. “The limited violations recorded in various areas of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, compared to the number of operating commercial establishments and the number of field visits and inspection campaigns, demonstrate the high rates of compliance with the laws and regulations governing commercial activities,” he said. “This confirms the effectiveness of awareness campaigns in spreading knowledge in the business sector and helps to ensure the highest standards of health, safety, and transparency.”
Legal framework for tobacco control
The UAE’s commitment to public health is rooted in a series of federal laws and regulations that govern tobacco sales. Among the most significant is Federal Law No. 3 of 2016, known as Wadeema’s Law, which prohibits the sale of tobacco and tobacco products to minors. This law gives retailers the right to ask customers for proof of age before completing a sale and extends restrictions to smoking in the presence of children in both public and private transportation. Additionally, Federal Law No. 15 of 2009 on Tobacco Control imposes various penalties on violators, including prohibitions on advertising tobacco products, the sale of tobacco to minors, and the operation of shisha cafes within 150 meters of sensitive areas like schools and mosques. The law also regulates the sale of products that resemble tobacco and imposes restrictions on the use of automatic vending machines for tobacco products. This legal framework is designed to prevent easy access to tobacco products, especially for young people, and aims to reduce smoking-related health risks.
The impact of excise tax and broader regulatory landscape
The excise tax on tobacco products, as stipulated by Cabinet Decision No. 52 of 2019, plays a pivotal role in discouraging tobacco consumption in the UAE. The excise tax rate for tobacco is set at 100%, significantly increasing the cost of these products and, by extension, curbing their consumption. As part of this strategy, the UAE government has also introduced more stringent controls on public smoking. Initiatives to limit tobacco use in public spaces, including parks, beaches, and recreational areas, have already been implemented in Dubai. Other areas, such as Sharjah, have gone a step further by banning all forms of smoking in public areas. In the future, the National Tobacco Control Committee aims to impose a full ban on smoking in public spaces, further solidifying the nation’s commitment to reducing smoking-related health issues. Go to Source
