Abu Dhabi Tightens Enforcement on Tobacco Sales Near Schools

Post by : Raina Nasser

Abu Dhabi authorities have stepped up enforcement to limit the availability of tobacco products close to schools, aiming to protect young residents from early exposure. In the latest operation, two retail outlets were closed, 61 warnings were issued and 18 violations were documented for unlawfully selling tobacco within school zones.

The breaches recorded included sales to minors, offering home delivery of tobacco products, and displaying tobacco at checkout counters — actions that contravene UAE regulations.

The Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), which operates under the Department of Economic Development (ADDED), carried out 1,661 field inspections and ran 21 targeted inspection campaigns across the emirate during the first ten months of 2025. The initiatives specifically monitored the sale of tobacco and e-cigarettes near educational institutions.

Under UAE law, the sale of tobacco within 150 metres of schools is prohibited, and selling to minors is outlawed. Offenders face at least three months in prison, fines beginning at AED 15,000, or both. There is also a separate AED 5,000 penalty for smoking in the presence of children.

Mohammed Muneef Al Mansoori, Director-General of ADRA, underlined the authority's commitment to maintaining a safe commercial environment, upholding health and safety standards, and protecting consumers. He added that the relatively low number of violations points to broad compliance and the effectiveness of awareness campaigns.

Officials say these proactive steps reinforce Abu Dhabi's focus on public health—particularly the safety of children—while ensuring businesses operate within legal parameters.