Abu Dhabi: Eight tobacco-trading facilities have been shut down by the Abu Dhabi City Municipality in a bid to limit the sale of these products near places of worship, education and residence.
With Monday’s announcement, a total of 20 outlets have been shut down since the beginning of this year for violations pertaining to sale of items containing tobacco such as cigarettes, hookah and the local pipe (medwakh).
Additionally, 40 other outlets were allowed to rectify their violations and 109 samples were given to the Ministry of Interior to ensure that they are free of illegal chemicals. The action was taken in collaboration with the Department of Economic Development as per Federal Law No 15 for 2009 on combating tobacco.
“This step stems from the keenness of the municipal system of Abu Dhabi to protect the health and safety of community members, nurture a healthy environment, and eliminate negative habits that might compromise the safety of individuals and reflect negatively on the health of the community,” the municipality said in a statement.
The venues were shut down after a number of warnings issued against them by the municipality, a grace period to rectify their problems and several inspection visits which made their breach of regulation repetitive and apparent.
“Having exhausted all means of direction and guidance, and the lack of response on the part of those outlets, the closure decision was taken,” the statement added.
Gulf News earlier reported that any shop found to be selling tobacco to individuals under the age of 18 will be closed down immediately. The Cabinet’s Resolution number 24 of 2013 has set the conditions and regulations for shops that wish to trade in tobacco. These include rules that differ depending on the area occupied by these facilities and their location relative to significant areas such as educational, medical and religious venues.
Another law issued penalises motorists from smoking in their vehicles in the presence of a child aged 12 or younger with a Dh500 fine. Moreover, tobacco products must be sealed when sold and items should not be placed near cashiers, baby products, sports equipment and foodstuff.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected violations to the municipality’s toll-free number 800555.
