Saudi Arabia Cracks Down on Smoking in Food Venues: Heavy Penalty Announced

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has introduced stringent new penalties to improve hygiene and safety standards across the food sector. The regulations are part of the government’s efforts to curb unhygienic practices and ensure consumer protection.

Under the new rules, smoking in food outlets carries the highest fine of 5,000 Saudi riyals (Rs. 3.75 lakh). Other penalties target both workers and businesses:

• Food handlers not wearing face masks or leaving their heads uncovered while preparing meals can be fined 1,000 Saudi riyals (Rs. 75,000).

• Delivery staff failing to wear their company’s official uniform face a 500 Saudi riyals (Rs. 37,543) fine.

• Establishments misleading customers by selling frozen juices as freshly prepared will be fined 1,000 Saudi riyals.

• Workers caught touching their face, nose, or spitting inside food preparation areas could face fines of up to 2,000 Saudi riyals (Rs. 1.50 lakh).

The ministry highlighted that these measures aim to safeguard public health, ensure transparency in the food chain, and maintain consumer trust. Businesses and employees have been urged to fully comply with the new regulations to avoid penalties.

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